The Panthers had a clear goal in mind this past offseason to upgrade their defensive line. Through four games, it’s clear that they have succeeded. The team’s run defense could use some improvement, but Carolina might just have the best pass rush in the NFL this season.

According to Sheil Kapadia, the Panthers are producing sacks and quarterback hits at the highest rate in the league (27%) when they rush four or fewer.

Had been Tweeting out the wrong link (sorry). Teams producing sacks/QBH at the highest rate when rushing 4 or fewer: 1. Panthers

2. Patriots

3. 49ers

4. Bucs

5. Steelers Lowest: 28. Raiders

29. Chiefs

30. Seahawks

31. Eagles

32. Bills More here: https://t.co/rynWrYvCSW — Sheil Kapadia (@SheilKapadia) October 5, 2019

Getting pressure without blitzing has long been a hall-mark of great defenses. It’s also been a major problem for the Panthers the last few years. Coach Ron Rivera and general manager Marty Hurney deserve credit for turning this part of the game around.

Mario Addison leads the team with 5.5 sacks, followed by Brian Burns with 2.5. The team is tied with the Patriots for the league lead with 18 total.