The Carolina Panthers have added to their pass rush for the 2023 season. According to ESPN Reporter Adam Schefter Carolina signed Outside Linebacker/Defensive End Justin Houston to a one-year deal Sunday. Houston received $6 million guaranteed and the deal is worth $7 million.
Four-time Pro-Bowl LB Justin Houston reached agreement on a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 6, 2023
Houston has been an effective pass-rusher throughout his career. Houston has played in 63 games, recorded 111.5 sacks, 404 solo tackles and 19 forced fumbles. Houston recorded 9.5 sacks in 2022 with the Baltimore Ravens. According to Statmuse Carolina’s pass rush registered 35 sacks in 2022.
Houston joins a Panthers defense transitioning from a 4-3 to a 3-4 under new Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero. Houston will play outside linebacker in Evero’s scheme. Houston played outside linebacker in Baltimore and Kansas City.
Adding Houston will help improve Carolina’s defense. Carolina’s defense ranked 22nd in 2022. Carolina allowed 350.2 yards per game and allowed 22 points per game.
Houston joins pass rushers Yetur Gross-Matos, Brian Burns, Henry Anderson and Derrick Brown.
Carolina’s defense must shine in 2023 to take pressure off rookie quarterback Bryce Young. Carolina has the pieces on the defensive side of the ball. Notable players include Deion Jones, Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, Vonn Bell and Xavier Woods.
Carolina’s pass rushers will benefit from Houston’s experience and leadership. Houston has played 12 seasons since entering the NFL in 2011. We shall see what Houston can do on the Panthers’ talented defense.