Carolina Panthers linebacker Devin Lloyd earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors following a historic performance against Atlanta in a dominant 34-3 road victory. Lloyd, a former Utah University standout, recorded nine tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, a quarterback hurry, and two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown.
Historic NFL Performance
Lloyd's performance in the win over Atlanta marked a historic milestone in the NFL. Since the league began recording sacks as an official statistic in 1982, Lloyd became the only linebacker to record nine tackles, two interceptions, a sack, and a pick-six in a single game, according to a University of Utah Athletics report released September 24, 2026.
New Chapter in Carolina
The linebacker's recent success follows his signing with the Panthers on March 12, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales previously noted that Lloyd is a highly productive, high-energy player with great range. Canales described the 6-3 linebacker as a heady player who possesses significant leadership qualities and respect from his teammates.
Leadership and Impact
Former Jacksonville Jaguars coach Liam Coen previously characterized Lloyd as a "collision communicator" during league meetings. Coen noted that Lloyd is a direct individual whose presence is felt on the field, adding that the linebacker had a clear mission to excel during his contract year. The Jaguars' decision not to pick up Lloyd's fifth-year option allowed the Panthers to acquire the linebacker following his career-best season in Jacksonville.
Draft History and Roots
Lloyd's professional ascent began in the 2022 NFL Draft, when he was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round with the 27th overall pick on Thursday, April 28, 2022. At the time, he became the ninth player from the University of Utah to be selected in the first round and the highest-drafted linebacker in the program's history.
Collegiate Dominance
During his tenure with the Utes, Lloyd was a dominant force on defense. In 2021, he was named the Pac-12 Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year and became a consensus All-American after earning eight first-team selections. His collegiate statistics included 43 career tackles for loss, ranking fourth in Utah program history, and four interceptions in 2021, which led all FBS linebackers.
The Utah Legacy
Lloyd's rise was noted by Utah defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley during the program's preparations for the 108th Rose Bowl Game in late 2021. Scalley recalled a pivotal moment in 2019 when Lloyd recorded a tipped interception and returned it for a touchdown against Oregon State. Scalley highlighted Lloyd's leadership, noting how he brought teammates into the film room to teach them and set a professional example.
Utes in the Pros
As the NFL season progresses, Lloyd remains a focal point for Carolina. He joins a growing list of Utah alumni making impacts across the league, including former quarterback Brian Johnson serving as a senior offensive assistant for the Los Angeles Rams and former signal-caller Mike McCoy serving as assistant head coach for the Las Vegas Raiders.
