The Carolina Panthers are actively exploring talent from the United Football League (UFL) to enhance their roster, a continuation of their established strategy of recruiting from alternative professional football leagues. With the UFL's 2026 season recently concluded, the Panthers' front office is evaluating several standout players, aiming to integrate fresh talent into their squad. This approach has previously yielded successful signings such as defensive lineman LaBryan Ray, who is now in his fourth season with the team, and Bryce Perkins, the UFL's 2025 Most Valuable Player, who joined the Panthers as a summer signing. As other UFL players are quickly being picked up by various teams, Carolina is focused on identifying key individuals who could significantly contribute to their team.
Among the top prospects, quarterback Jack Plummer stands out, having been named the UFL's MVP in 2026. Plummer, who initially entered the professional scene as an undrafted free agent with the Panthers in 2024, replicated Perkins' achievement by securing the prestigious MVP title. His impressive performance included leading the league with 2,188 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and only one interception, guiding his Orlando Storm to an 8-2 record. Given his past association with the Panthers, there's speculation about a potential reunion, especially if the team considers making changes among their current quarterbacks, Will Grier or Haynes King. Plummer's return could signify a new chapter in his development with the Carolina franchise.
Tight end Sal Cannella is another player drawing attention. Despite a brief appearance in only two games during the 2025 season with the St. Louis Battlehawks, Cannella demonstrated consistent productivity in previous years. Over 30 games with the Arlington Renegades from 2023 to 2025, the 6-foot-5, 242-pound athlete accumulated 1,386 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Cannella also had a taste of the NFL in 2025, playing two regular-season games for the Cleveland Browns. His performance in a preseason opener against the Panthers, where he led his team with 32 receiving yards, offers the Carolina coaching staff firsthand insight into his capabilities, potentially making him a valuable addition to their tight end group.
On the defensive side, Isaiah Buggs, a defensive lineman, is being considered. The Panthers' defensive line has faced challenges, particularly with the unexpected neck injury to starter Tershawn Wharton, which has sidelined him indefinitely. Buggs proved to be a disruptive force for the Orlando Storm, recording nine tackles for a loss—tying for the fourth-highest in the UFL—and 2.0 sacks in nine games. His prior experience playing under Panthers defensive line coach Todd Wash during their time with the Detroit Lions in 2022 could facilitate a smooth transition and integration into Carolina's defensive schemes.
Finally, outside linebacker Cam Gill, who also has previous connections to the Carolina organization, showcased an exceptional 2025 UFL season. Gill earned the Defensive Player of the Year award by leading the league with 10.0 sacks. While the Panthers have invested significantly in enhancing their pass rush in recent seasons, including a substantial $120 million signing of outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips, the philosophy remains that a team can never have too much defensive pressure. Gill's proven ability to consistently generate sacks makes him an attractive candidate to further strengthen the Panthers' defensive capabilities.
The Carolina Panthers are maintaining their keen interest in scouting talent from spring football leagues. This ongoing strategy has proven beneficial in the past, enabling them to discover and integrate valuable players into their team. As the UFL season concludes, the Panthers are strategically assessing various players who could potentially elevate their roster and contribute to future successes.
