NFL free agency is almost set to begin, and we're keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2025 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts. The new league year begins March 12 at 4 p.m. ET, and free agent signings can then become official. The first round of the 2025 NFL draft begins April 24 on ESPN.
Here's a breakdown of every 2025 NFL free agent signing by the Carolina Panthers and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Jaycee Horn, CB
The Panthers gave Horn a four-year extension worth $100 million with $70 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history.
What it means: The Panthers have one of their defensive foundation pieces locked up until 2029, and they got ahead of the market by signing Horn to the extension now instead of waiting for the market to go up.
What's the risk: Horn's injury history could persist. He played 15 games this past season, making enough of an impression to be selected to his first Pro Bowl. When healthy, he's one of the top corners in the league. But injuries limited Horn to 22 of 51 possible games the previous three seasons.
Tommy Tremble, TE
Tremble has agreed to a two-year, $10.5 million contract to stay in Carolina.
What it means: Continuity at the position and a veteran leader in the tight ends room to help bring along 2024 fourth-round pick Ja'Tavion Sanders. While it doesn't rule out drafting another tight end, it reduces the pressure do so.
What's the risk: That Tremble doesn't continue to develop as a receiving threat. He's had 23 catches in each of the past two seasons and only 85 catches for nine touchdowns in four seasons. Otherwise, no real risk.
Austin Corbett, C
The Panthers are re-signing the center to a one-year deal.
What it means: The Panthers are keeping intact the starting offensive line that reduced QB Bryce Young's sack total from 62 in 2023 to 29 last season. They also kept restricted free agent Cade Mays, who started eight games after Corbett suffered a season-ending biceps injury in 2024.
What's the risk: Corbett, 29, has been limited to nine starts the past two seasons due to injury.