Panthers offense among most-improved units following 2025 NFL draft

Thanks to the addition of a big-play wideout, a versatile running back, and two other pass-catchers, the Panthers’ offense could be formidable in 2025

Apr 24, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell with Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan after he is selected by the Carolina Panthers as the number eight pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The primary focus for the Carolina Panthers and general manager Dan Morgan this offseason was a defensive unit that allowed the most total yards, most rushing yards, and most touchdown passes in the league in 2024. The team also set a dubious record by surrendering 534 points, the most by a team in a single season in NFL history.

Morgan showed that while defense was a priority in free agency, he addressed an offensive unit last week that finished with the fourth-fewest total yards in the NFL in ’24. Dave Canales’s squad also ranked 30th in the league in passing, despite a second-half surge by quarterback Bryce Young.

RotoBaller recently cited the most improved offenses in the league following the three-day draft process at Lambeau Field. Dave Canales’s club was one of the seven teams mentioned, and with good reason.

“The Carolina Panthers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with a pretty big need on the offensive side of the ball. The team desperately needed a WR1 who could be that go-to target for quarterback Bryce Young in the passing game. It's safe to say that the Panthers found that when they selected Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan with the eighth overall pick.

“Even though Carolina only drafted one offensive player in the first three rounds, that selection definitely makes them one of the more improved offenses after the draft. McMillan was one of the best wide receivers in the class and totaled back-to-back 1,300 receiving yards with the Wildcats.  His presence will only help Young take that next step in Year 3.”

Jan 20, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Mitchell Evans (88) runs after a catch against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second half in the CFP National Championship college football game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The site also mentioned the other three offensive players Morgan selected. “Outside of McMillan, the Panthers also added running back Trevor Etienne (Round 4), tight end Mitchell Evans (Round 5), and wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. (Round 6) to give them a well-rounded draft. With Dave Canales leading things on offense for the second straight year, don't sleep on McMillan making a huge impact immediately.”

Combine last year’s late-season surge along with contributions from the aforementioned rookies, Carolina’s attack may be a real problem for opposing defenses in 2025.

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