As NFL training camps heat up and trade rumors begin swirling ahead of preseason, one storyline gaining traction is the Carolina Panthers’ potential pursuit of a rising star on the Baltimore Ravens’ defense. According to several league insiders, the Panthers are being strongly encouraged to monitor this breakout defender closely — with whispers of a possible trade scenario taking shape behind the scenes.
Who’s the Ravens Defender in the Spotlight?
While the name hasn’t been officially confirmed, all signs point to linebacker Malik Harrison or safety Brandon Stephens, both of whom have been turning heads during minicamps and offseason drills. Harrison, a former third-round pick, has taken major strides in run support and versatility. Stephens, meanwhile, emerged as one of Baltimore’s most reliable coverage backs last season, capable of playing both safety and corner.
With the Ravens boasting enviable depth in their front seven and secondary, it’s plausible that one of these young talents could become expendable — if the price is right.
Why the Panthers Should Be Interested
After a 2-15 season filled with defensive lapses, the Carolina Panthers are looking to reboot their identity under new head coach Dave Canales and defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. Although the team features cornerstone pieces like Brian Burns and Derrick Brown, they desperately need help in the second level and secondary, especially after losing safety Jeremy Chinn and linebacker Frankie Luvu this offseason.
Adding a young, ascending defender with upside and starting experience could help solidify the defense, bring leadership to a young locker room, and give the Panthers flexibility heading into a rebuild year.
Trade Talk: What Would It Take?
While the Ravens are unlikely to part with a key contributor for anything less than fair value, a trade package involving a mid-round pick (perhaps a conditional 4th or 5th) or a swap for depth at offensive line or wide receiver might tempt Baltimore — especially if the defender in question sees reduced snaps due to internal competition.
Carolina, armed with extra Day 3 picks and little to lose in 2025, could make a low-risk, high-reward move here.
Expert Insight
NFL analyst Jordan Schultz recently noted:
“Carolina’s new regime is watching the waiver wire and potential trade market like a hawk. Don’t be surprised if they target someone like Malik Harrison — the fit makes too much sense with Evero’s scheme.”
Former GM Michael Lombardi also weighed in:
“If Baltimore doesn’t see a long-term fit for some of their defensive depth, Carolina might be the perfect partner. It’s the kind of trade that helps both franchises immediately.”
Final Thoughts: A Sneaky Smart Move?
For a team like the Panthers that’s not expected to contend this season, smart roster-building starts with finding underutilized talent. Monitoring a rising Ravens defender — and making a move if the fit is right — could accelerate Carolina’s rebuild and send a message that this team isn’t just idling in the basement.
Whether or not a deal materializes, one thing is clear: the Panthers are quietly reshaping their roster with purpose. And this kind of bold, forward-thinking move might just be the spark they need.
