The Carolina Panthers have secured their defensive cornerstone, Derrick Brown, with a four-year contract extension worth $96 million, the team announced on Friday. The deal reportedly includes a $63 million guarantee for Brown, according to ESPN.
Brown’s new contract averages $24 million per year, making him the fourth-highest-paid defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). He ranks behind Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs, Christian Wilkins of the Las Vegas Raiders, and Justin Madubuike of the Baltimore Ravens, all of whom also signed extensions during the off-season.
Unique among his peers, Brown finalized his extension without entering free agency. Drafted seventh overall by the Panthers in 2020, he has rapidly ascended to elite status over the past two seasons.
In 2022, Brown set a franchise record for a lineman with 67 tackles. He continued his impressive performance in the 2023 campaign, increasing his tackle count to 103 and making his Pro Bowl debut. Over his four seasons, he has also accumulated a total of eight sacks, showcasing his impact on the Panthers’ defense.
By locking in Brown with this substantial extension, the Panthers demonstrate their commitment to building a formidable defense around one of the league’s rising stars.
Reference(s):
Panthers agree four-year, $96-million extension with DT Derrick Brown
cgtn.com
