New Carolina Panthers 7-Round Mock Draft Makes Bryce Young Smile

The Carolina Panthers addressed most of their needs in free agency, which frees them up to do almost anything in the draft. The defense isn't totally set, but it is in good enough shape that the offense can take center stage after sitting on the sideline in free agency.

Dave Canales recently said they are changing the offense to fit what Bryce Young does well. Since they didn't add any weapons in free agency, he must be envisioning an offense-centric draft. Here's what that could look like. 1.19:

Panthers full seven-round mock draft with trades

1.19: Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson

Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Despite a really good trade offer from the Philadelphia Eagles (23 and 54 for 19 and 83), the Panthers stay pat and pass on Kenyon Sadiq. Jordyn Tyson is way too good to pass up, as he's The Athletic's 12th-ranked prospect, and he completes a brilliant WR trio in Carolina.

2.52: Penn State S Zakee Wheatley

The Packers called and offered a 2027 fifth-rounder to swap the 51st and 52nd picks. With the new spot, the Panthers grab Zakee Wheatley to give them a safety after passing on Dillon Thieneman in the first round.

3.86: NC State TE Justin Joly

The Chargers offered a 2027 seventh-rounder to move down three spots, which sounds like a Dan Morgan kind of move. There, the Panthers fill the tight end void (or try again to do that) with local standout, NC State tight end Justin Joly.

4.119: Duke C Brian Parker II

Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Nana Osafo-Mensah (31) against Duke Blue Devils offensive lineman Brian Parker II | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

The Panthers do not have a center under contract beyond 2026. Luke Fortner is a good stopgap, but the Panthers have got to develop someone. Here, they go back to the local well, snagging Duke center Brian Parker, who can play guard and even tackle in a pinch.

5.150: TCU LB Kaleb Elarms-Orr

Despite signing Devin Lloyd, the Panthers still need another linebacker. Even if it's just for depth behind Trevin Wallace, the Panthers learned the value of having a deep linebacker corps by not having one last year. Enter Kaleb Elarms-Orr, who can develop off the bench.

5.151: Arkansas QB Taylen Green

The Panthers have said they're not ruling out drafting another QB to develop behind Bryce Young, especially since Kenny Pickett's on a one-year deal. Taylen Green is the ideal backup as he's athletic, fast (4.36 40-time), and can easily make plays with his legs.

6.200: North Carolina CB Thaddeus Dixon

North Carolina Tar Heels cornerback Thaddeus Dixon (1) catches the football in the air | Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images

Why not go back to the well a third time and finish out the Research Triangle trifecta? North Carolina cornerback Thaddeus Dixon would make an excellent addition, as he would provide needed depth and could develop as the replacement for Mike Jackson, who's almost 30 and a pending free agent.