The Carolina Panthers are in full rebuild mode, and their latest seven-round mock draft reflects a commitment to surrounding quarterback Bryce Young with the weapons and protection he needs. The franchise finished the 2023 season with a disappointing record, earning them a top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Instead of taking the conventional route, Carolina made a bold selection that shocked analysts but could significantly impact the team’s future.
Round 1, Pick 8: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
With the 8th overall pick, the Panthers selected Penn State tight end Tyler Warren, a move aimed at giving Young a much-needed reliable target. Since Greg Olsen’s departure, Carolina has struggled to find consistency at tight end, making this an essential upgrade.
Warren is a versatile player who can line up in multiple formations, providing both blocking support and a dynamic receiving threat. He caught 34 passes for 422 yards and seven touchdowns in his final college season. His combination of size (6’6″, 256 lbs) and athleticism makes him a nightmare for defenders in the red zone. The Panthers hope he can become a security blanket for Young, similar to how Travis Kelce has benefited Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City.
Round 2, Pick 57: Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA
Addressing their defensive needs, the Panthers selected UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger in the second round. Schwesinger has risen up draft boards due to his high football IQ, speed, and ability to diagnose plays quickly. He was a leader for UCLA’s defense, finishing with 110 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in 2023.
Adding Schwesinger gives the Panthers a strong presence in the middle of their defense, complementing pass rushers and helping to improve a unit that struggled to stop the run last season.
Round 3, Pick 74: Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina
With their third-round pick, the Panthers focused on their pass rush, selecting Kyle Kennard, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Kennard led the conference with 11.5 sacks, proving to be an elite edge defender with explosive speed off the line.
Carolina’s defense lacked consistent pressure in 2023, and Kennard’s addition should help alleviate that problem. Pairing him with Brian Burns could give the Panthers one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the league.
Round 4, Pick 111: Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech
Needing reinforcements in the secondary, the Panthers picked Dorian Strong, a long and athletic cornerback from Virginia Tech. Strong thrives in press-man coverage, making him an ideal fit for Carolina’s defensive scheme.
Round 4, Pick 114: Savion Williams, WR, TCU
In an effort to give Young more weapons, the Panthers selected Savion Williams, a 6’4″, 222-pound receiver with excellent hands and route-running skills. Williams posted 60 receptions for 611 yards and six touchdowns in 2023. His size and ability to make contested catches should help Carolina’s struggling passing attack.
Later-Round Picks:
- Round 5, Pick 140: Jackson Slater, OL, Sacramento State
- Round 5, Pick 146: Kyle Monangai, RB, Rutgers
- Round 5, Pick 163: Malachi Moore, S, Alabama
- Round 7, Pick 230: Upton Stout, CB, Western Kentucky
This draft strategy shows Carolina’s commitment to building around Young while strengthening both sides of the ball.