Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera has indicated a change to more 3-4 defensive fronts is in store next season in a dramatic shift from his bedrock 4-3 scheme. The move stems from needing to get more pressure on the quarterback, in addition to a pass happy league – especially in the NFC South division.
In order to do so the Panthers are expected to target a first-round pass rusher who can start immediately. Following the departure of Julius Peppers via retirement, general manager Marty Hurney added Bruce Irvin into the mix but may still elect to get another promising young prospect with the team’s first pick.