The Carolina Panthers’ Secret to Contain Travis Hunter and Travis Etienne in Week 1

Panthers' Derrick Brown walks out to field during preseason game against Pittsburgh. Photo by: Kevin Tolbert

As the Carolina Panthers prepare to kick off their 2025 NFL season against the Jacksonville Jaguars, all eyes are on their revamped defense. After a historically poor showing in 2024—ranking dead last in run defense and near the bottom in pass coverage—the Panthers enter Week 1 with renewed optimism, anchored by the return of Pro Bowl defensive tackle Derrick Brown and a host of new additions. But the challenge is steep: they’ll face a Jaguars offense featuring explosive dual-threat running back Travis Etienne and rookie phenom Travis Hunter, who will play both wide receiver and cornerback. For Panthers’ defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, the formula is simplicity, especially when it comes to dealing with Hunter.

To understand Carolina’s Week 1 tendencies, let’s look at a snapshot of their defensive stats from the past seven season openers. Carolina has allowed an average of 27 points, 142 rush yards, and 181 pass yards in Week 1 games during that span. The rush yards are they key factor in those games. It’s worth knowing that NFL teams that lose games typically allow between 120–140 rushing yards per game. They have only two wins during the cycle. SO a key for the Panthers’ defense will be to limit rushing yards to less than 100 yards based on the team’s trend. While the statistical argument allows up to 130 yards per game, the Panthers also have to account for the lack of production by the offense. Although the team sports a much improved offense, the recent injuries to key offensive lineman could jeopardize that unit’s chemistry.

Year	Opponent	Points Allowed	Rush Yards Allowed	Pass Yards Allowed	Outcome
2018	Cowboys	8	94	170	Win
2019	Rams	30	166	183	Loss
2020	Raiders	34	133	239	Loss
2021	Jets	14	45	174	Win
2022	Browns	26	217	138	Loss
2023	Falcons	24	130	115	Loss
2024	Saints	31	210	245	Loss

Travis Etienne enters Week 1 with a rushing prop line of 39.5 yards, which seems modest—but deceptive. Etienne averaged 37.2 rushing yards per game last season, and while he struggled in 2024, he remains a dangerous weapon in Liam Coen’s new offensive scheme. Coen, known for revitalizing Tampa Bay’s offense in 2024, is expected to lean on Etienne’s dual-threat ability early and often. Additionally, the sibling rivalry with younger brother and Carolina Panthers running back, Trevor Etienne, will definitely give the senior rusher some incentive to turn on the burners.

Travis Hunter, the rookie sensation from Colorado, is projected to play 80% of snaps on both offense and defense. His receiving prop is set at 47.5 yards, and he’s expected to be a deep threat for Trevor Lawrence. Hunter’s versatility makes him a matchup nightmare, especially for a Panthers secondary that’s still finding its identity.

Stopping the run is priority number one for Carolina. In 2024, they allowed a league-worst 179.8 rushing yards per game. But 2025 brings big hope.

The hopes of the Carolina run defense rest squarely on the big shoulders of defensive tackle Derrick Brown, who missed nearly all of last season due to a torn meniscus. He is back and healthy and chomping at the bit to resume his role to improve the team’s run defense. In 2023, he set the NFL record for most tackles by a defensive lineman (103). His presence alone elevates the unit’s physicality and energy.

Brown is not alone. His supporting cast includes Bobby Brown III (NT) who is a space-eater who will help clog interior lanes. The Super Bowl LIV champion brings top-level grit to the defensive line.

A'Shawn Robinson (RDE): Brings veteran savvy and run-stopping ability. And Patrick Jones II and D.J. Wonnum (OLBs) are expected to set the edge and can contain outside runs. Trevin Wallace (ILB) is a rising star who will be key in tracking Etienne laterally.

All are healthy to begin the second season under the command of Dave Canales. This week, Canales emphasized that Brown’s return has “raised the level of play for everyone around him”.

Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero at Week 1 practice. Photo: Kevin Tolbert, ADSN

With improved depth and chemistry, the Panthers should be significantly better against the run. A'Shawn Robinson could be impactful in getting to the quarterback this week. He posted 5.5 sacks last season and will be looking to raise that number significantly this year as he benefits from Brown’s interior disruption. Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson are Both are projected to pick off Trevor Lawrence in Week 1.

Based on trends, personnel upgrades, and matchup analysis, Carolina’s defensive performance in Week 1 should produce dividends to the tune of a win. The Panthers are projected to give up at least 27 points against the Trevor Lawrence aerial attack that includes the enigma Travis Hunter. However, the improved pass rush should force a couple of turnovers, especially with Horn and Jackson playing tighter coverage. The pair of aerial defenders is healthy to start the season.

The Panthers defense is no longer the liability it was in 2024. With Derrick Brown anchoring the line and a deeper linebacker corps, they should contain Travis Etienne to less than 60 total yards. Travis Hunter may break off one explosive play, but Carolina’s secondary has the tools to limit his overall impact.

While the Jaguars will rack up some yards through the air, Carolina’s defense will show signs of life—especially in the trenches. It may not be their most dominant performance of the season, but it will be a step in the right direction.

KT's Prediction: Panthers win 27–24, as the Panthers defense earns respect and sets the tone for a more competitive season.