Panthers Bring Back a Champion: Former Super Bowl Winner Re-Signs with Carolina
The Carolina Panthers have made a key move in free agency, bringing back veteran safety Nick Scott on a one-year contract. Scott, a former Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams, returns to Carolina after a strong season with the team in 2024. His presence is expected to provide stability, leadership, and playmaking ability to the Panthers’ secondary as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing season.
Scott’s Journey to Carolina
Nick Scott was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft after playing college football at Penn State. Despite being a late-round pick, he quickly established himself as a valuable contributor on special teams and eventually carved out a role as a starting safety. His breakout moment came during the 2021-22 NFL playoffs, when he helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI, making key plays in their postseason run.
After four seasons in Los Angeles, Scott signed a three-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2023. However, his tenure in Cincinnati was short-lived, as he was released after just one season. Carolina picked him up for the 2024 season, and he made an immediate impact with 86 tackles, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. His strong play and veteran leadership earned him another opportunity with the Panthers for the upcoming season.
Why the Panthers Re-Signed Scott
The Panthers are in the midst of a rebuild under head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan. After finishing the 2024 season near the bottom of the NFC standings, they are looking to strengthen their defense. Bringing back a veteran like Scott gives the secondary much-needed experience, especially since the Panthers have a young defensive core that includes safety Xavier Woods and cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Donte Jackson.
Another factor in Scott’s return is his familiarity with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. Evero, who was on the Rams’ coaching staff during Scott’s time in Los Angeles, values Scott’s versatility and leadership. His ability to play both strong safety and free safety allows Carolina to have flexibility in its defensive schemes.
What Scott Brings to Carolina’s Defense
Scott’s greatest strengths are his physicality, tackling ability, and experience in high-pressure situations. He is known for delivering big hits, creating turnovers, and being a vocal leader on the field. These qualities will be crucial as Carolina looks to improve a defense that struggled at times in 2024.
Additionally, Scott has postseason experience, which is something the Panthers will find valuable as they try to build a winning culture. His knowledge of what it takes to compete at the highest level can help younger players develop the right mindset.
Final Thoughts
Re-signing Nick Scott is a smart move for the Panthers. While he may not be a superstar, he is a reliable veteran who can contribute immediately. His leadership, physicality, and familiarity with the coaching staff make him an important piece of the defense heading into the 2025 season. As Carolina continues to rebuild, bringing back a Super Bowl champion like Scott could be a step in the right direction.
