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Defensive line has talented core, but why must the Panthers draft an edge-rusher?

Analyzing the Carolina Panthers, position by position, ahead of free agency and the NFL draft. Up next: Defensive line.

Three things to know

u25aa Hoke takes over: After promoting Eric Washington to defensive coordinator, Carolina hired Brady Hoke to coach the defensive line. Hoke spent 34 years at the collegiate level, and has large shoes to fill. He’s also inheriting some impressive players.

u25aa Peppers back? The Panthers hope to re-sign veteran defensive end Julius Peppers, who at age 37 tied for the team lead in sacks last season. Peppers had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder on Thursday.