Report: Panthers mulling change to 3-4 defense

The Carolina Panthers are considering transitioning to a predominantly 3-4 scheme this offseason, according to a report from The Athletic on Tuesday. Per the report, the team could shift to more looks with three down linemen and four linebackers while seeking more pressure against opposing quarterbacks.

The Panthers will use part of the offseason to gauge how their personnel would fit the change, but the expectation is they'll at least be more multiple in 2018, with both 3-4 and 4-3 formations. Carolina has run a classic 4-3 scheme since head coach Ron Rivera arrived in 2011, but he ran a 3-4 defense as defensive coordinator of the then-San Diego Chargers from 2008-2010 after running a 4-3 scheme with the Chicago Bears from 2004-06.

The differences between the two styles have become less significant in an era when nickel and dime packages -- mostly featuring four-man fronts -- have become the norm. Middle linebacker Luke Kuechly has been featured as the centerpiece of the Panthers' 4-3 defense since he was drafted in 2012, and he would become one of two inside linebackers in a 3-4.

Thomas Davis and Shaq Thompson have also been key pieces, but a 3-4 scheme would require only two off-the-ball linebackers -- the other two play on the edges, usually on the line of scrimmage. Davis announced earlier this month the team told him it won't re-sign him when he becomes a free agent in March. A switch to a 3-4 would also likely move defensive ends Mario Addison, Wes Horton and -- if he returns for an 18th NFL season at age 39 -- Julius Peppers to outside linebacker. Defensive tackle Kawann Short would likely play more defensive end, while Dontari Poe would likely be the starter at nose tackle.

--Field Level Media