Around the Mock Draft World: Young to Panthers is a Consensus

We have a consensus.

The Carolina Panthers will officially be on the clock in just a few hours and it shouldn't take them all that long to turn in the pick. We know they're taking a quarterback and everyone believes that quarterback will be Alabama's Bryce Young.

Here is our last-minute look around the NFL mock draft landscape.

Schuyler Callihan, FanNation on Sports Illustrated: QB Bryce Young

It's a lock. Bryce Young will be a Panther. That doesn't mean that his slender frame still doesn't concern me. I've said all along that C.J. Stroud is the safer pick for that very reason. But if we're talking purely about the talent, Young is certainly QB1 in this class. The IQ, maturity, and leadership that he brings to the table will allow Carolina to compete for an NFC South title right away.

Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN: QB Bryce Young

"I'm confident the Panthers will make the right call here and take Young, my top-ranked quarterback. He's going to be their face of the franchise for years to come, though they need to focus on putting talent around him so they're not picking in the top 10 in 2024."

Todd McShay, ESPN: QB Bryce Young

"We've been projecting Young here for a while, and there's no reason to change anything now. He appears set to become the No. 1 pick and the new franchise quarterback for the Panthers -- who desperately need one. You won't hear any arguments with the choice from me; Young is my No. 1 overall prospect. I love his poise and off-platform ability, and he can make every NFL-level throw. But can Carolina improve his supporting cast on Day 2?"

David Newton, ESPN: QB Bryce Young

"Carolina traded up from No. 9 to have a shot at Young, and the pre-draft process only strengthened the decision. Start with Young's processing skills that general manager Scott Fitterer called "over the top.'' Then there's his leadership and proven ability to make plays when things break down. Durability due to his size (5-foot-10, 204 pounds) is the only concern, but Fitterer and coach Frank Reich repeatedly downplayed it. This from Fitterer says it all: "He's just, like, chill. Nothing's too big for him.''

Peter Schrager, NFL Network: QB Bryce Young

"He's the most polished quarterback in this class and will join one of the best staffs in all of football for a young signal-caller."

Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network: QB Bryce Young

"This is the pick that made the most sense to me ever since Carolina traded up to No. 1. I think Young is the best quarterback in this year’s class."

Bucky Brooks, NFL Network: QB Bryce Young

"The diminutive gunslinger becomes the face of the franchise in Carolina."

Chris Simms, NBC Sports: QB Bryce Young

“They’re comfortable with his size. They love his football brain and IQ and they feel like he’s a natural. They’re comfortable in the style of play they’re going to play with him.”

You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:

Facebook - @PanthersOnSI

Twitter - @AllPanthers_ and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_.