Derrick Brown

Career StatsC-

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		84	13.0	321	46
2025		17	5.0	73	5
2024		1	0.0	3	0
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Panthers made a defensible but uninspiring investment in Derrick Brown, locking up their serviceable starter at $24M AAV in what amounts to a slight overpay for his current production level. Brown earns a C CVI, reflecting the awkward reality of paying elite money for above-average but not franchise-caliber interior pass rush — he's a solid NFL starter who helps your defense but isn't the kind of game-wrecker that typically commands this salary tier. At 26, Brown is entering his prime years, which provides some upside for the Panthers to extract maximum value from this deal, though his ceiling appears well-established after four seasons. The $41.2M in guaranteed money represents reasonable risk management for Carolina, avoiding the catastrophic downside while betting that Brown can elevate his game to match the contract. This feels like the kind of deal that keeps a good player in-house without moving the needle significantly — Brown will anchor their defensive line competently, but the Panthers are banking on incremental improvement rather than a breakout that would justify this investment.

Performance Analysis

Derrick Brown earns a C- for the Panthers at defensive end, a former top-ten pick whose career has been hindered by a devastating knee injury. Brown was developing into one of the best interior defenders in football before the injury struck, showing the combination of power and quickness that made him a dominant college player. His return has been cautious, and he has not yet recaptured the level of play he showed prior to the injury. Carolina is being patient with his recovery, and the flashes of his pre-injury form have been encouraging. The Panthers desperately need Brown to return to full health, because a dominant Derrick Brown changes everything about their defensive front.

Current Sentiment

Derrick Brown is experiencing a notable resurgence in media coverage following what appears to be a strong comeback season that has significantly impacted the Panthers' unexpected success. The recent contract restructure demonstrates organizational commitment to the veteran defensive lineman while creating necessary salary cap flexibility, suggesting he remains a valued piece of their defensive core. Brown's public comments about the team's surprising playoff run reflect his role as a veteran leader who has helped anchor a defense that exceeded expectations. However, his exclusion from Pro Bowl recognition, despite teammate and personal disappointment, highlights that his individual accolades haven't quite matched his team contributions this season. The combination of his leadership presence, team success, and ongoing role as a key defensive starter has elevated his standing, though questions about individual statistical production relative to his contract remain part of the narrative.