The Carolina Panthers’ season ended later than usual this year. Refreshing, right?
Rather than packing their bags at the end of the regular season as they had in the previous seven seasons, the Panthers ended up making the playoffs. While their long-awaited appearance may come once and for all in a thrilling wild-card round game against the Los Angeles Rams, the team has made some promising progress in 2025.
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But now that we’ve entered their offseason, it’s time to kick things off with the first 2026 mock draft.
Let’s take a closer look. . .
*Select numbers are predictions via Tankathon.com
First round (19th overall): Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
At 6-foot-2, 248 pounds, Howell may not meet some of the Panthers’ size thresholds. But they may be willing to overlook situations where they add an exciting player to a lackluster department.
Howell is probably the best pure pass rusher in his class among edge defenders. He has a variety of moves, dynamic bends and great athleticism.
Second round (51st overall): Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri
Trotter is one of the most underrated linebackers in the country. He displays excellent football IQ and downhill explosiveness, along with growing ability in coverage.
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Carolina must address an issue at inside linebacker that has plagued their defense the past few seasons.
Third round (83rd overall): Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Although the Panthers recently drafted tight ends Mitchell Evans and Ja’Tawion Sanders, they still need some playmaking ability.
Stowers was arguably the top pass catcher in Vanderbilt’s offense last season, catching 62 passes for 769 yards and four touchdowns. The 6-foot-4, 235-pounder is an elite route runner with good ball skills.
Fourth round (No. 119 overall): Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
The Panthers need a dynamic pass catcher in space, and Branch provides him with excellent short-yardage speed and athleticism.
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Fifth round (156th overall, via MIN): J’Mari Taylor, RB, Virginia
On day three of the draft, be sure to take a chance on a running back. Taylor provides creativity and explosiveness that the Carolina backcourt lacks.
Fifth round (No. 157 overall): Pat Coogan, C, Indiana
Cade Mays is a free agent, and the Panthers must consider their potential options if he is out. Coogan has been a standout player during the Indians’ national title run, especially in the running game.
Round 6 (No. 199 overall): Fa’alili Fa’amoe, OT, Wake Forest
Between left tackle Ikem Ekwonu’s torn patellar tendon and right tackle Taylor Moton’s mileage, the Panthers should consider investing in a bookend or two.
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Round 7 (No. 235 overall): Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas
A developmental quarterback would be a logical addition to the roster.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers 2026 Mock Draft 1.0: Welcome to the offseason