ESPN Projects the Panthers' First Four Picks in the 2024 Draft

Carolina trades back in ESPN's latest mock draft.

Mel Kiper Jr. and Field Yates of ESPN recently did a mock draft where they alternated picks for the first three rounds. Right out of the shoot in the second round, they project the Panthers to make a deal with the Los Angeles Rams, picking up two extra picks in return.

PROJECTED TRADE:

Rams get: No. 33 (QB Michael Penix Jr.)

Panthers get: No. 52, No. 83, 2025 3rd round pick

PROJECTED PICKS

No. 39 WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia

“I thought about cornerback and edge rusher, but this might be a great spot to add a talented wideout to one of the worst receiving corps in the league. McConkey just knows how to get open.” - Kiper

No. 52: CB Mike Sanistril, Michigan

“Sainristil would be an excellent nickel for Carolina. He has a penchant for forcing turnovers -- he had six picks in 2023 -- and is standout tackler.” - Yates

No. 65: LB Chris Braswell, Alabama

“Braswell is another instant contributor for the Panthers in this draft. He is an underrated pass-rusher after registering eight sacks last season. Carolina's pass rush struggled big-time in 2023.” - Kiper

No. 83: TE Ben Sinnott, Kansas State

“Sinnott is my top-ranked H-back, but he can be used mostly as a tight end, especially in a thin class. His 676 receiving yards last season ranked fourth among FBS tight ends. He measured 6-foot-4 and weighed 250 pounds at the combine, and he could quickly rise to the top of the Panthers' depth chart.” - Kiper

MY ANALYSIS:

I’m sure it’s not a popular move within the fanbase, but I think trading out of either 33 or 39 is a great idea as it will give Carolina more cracks at the plate. Whoever is unable to snag a quarterback on day one will be blowing up Dan Morgan’s phone to move into that 33rd spot of the draft. Assuming there will be multiple suitors (there will be), it could drive up the price of the return.

As far as the projected picks go, I don’t mind the selections of McConkey and Sainristil. Sinnott, I believe, won’t be around by pick 83 but if he is, that’s a terrific scenario for the Panthers. Overall, a good mix selected by Kiper and Yates.