The Carolina Panthers are in an interesting place heading into the 2025 draft. They have their QB – Bliss Young proved that he should get the chance to play a full season as a starter for half of his season. However, the Panthers have a huge need outside of QBs, leaving them away from competitive teams. Defense remains a big issue, but where do they rank where they need their position? We broke them with the perfect fit for each spot.
1. Edge Rush
The Panthers finished 31st in the NFL season with an ESPN pass-rush victory. In other words, it's awful to say the least. Carolina needs someone who is explosive to pair with DT Derrick Brown and Edge Jadeveon Clowney to really start cooking this defense.
Best fit: Mike Green, Marshall, Donovan Ezellak, Boston College, Elijahponder, Calpoli
2. Wide receiver
As QB Bryce Young concludes the 2024 season, the priorities surrounding Young with weapons that will help maximize Young's talent should be prioritized. Receivers can be a great help in getting someone with explosiveness and making Young's life much easier.
Best fit: Tetaro Amakumillan, Arizona, Eric Ayo Manor, Stanford, Jaylin Noel, Iowa
3. Cornerback
Finding someone on the other side of CB Jacee Horn to reinforce his pass defense is also a big deal for the Panthers. Horn played well in 2024, but CB Mike Jackson on the other side of him will be a free agent. The passing attacks the Panthers see in the division are very powerful and good secondary play should be important.
Best fit: Travis Hunter, Colorado, Benjamin Morrison, Notre DameMac McWilliams, UCF
4. Defensive tackle
Do you feel the trend here? The Panthers' defense was horrifying last year, and Derrick Brown bites the defensive line of interiors from the lineup. A'shawn Robinson is fine as a ran defender, but another threat inside the other side of Brown can do real damage. I really want Graham here, but if the two QBs were to go early, the Panthers could see him falling into his knees.
Best fit: Mason Graham, Michigan, Jamalie Caldwell, Oregon, JJ Pegs, Olemis
