Although free agency is technically ongoing, most significant moves have already been made. The Carolina Panthers were very active in the early stages of free agency, focusing on bolstering their offensive side. This left the defense with several gaps, while the offense also requires further enhancement. With the veteran roster mostly settled, it’s an opportune time to assess the areas the Panthers need to address through the draft.
Edge Rusher
The Panthers currently have voids on the defensive line edge, particularly after the departures of Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos. Their replacements, DJ Wonnum and K’Lavon Chaisson, offer limited production and potential. A more ideal scenario would involve at least one of these attributes.
Wide Receiver
The addition of Diontae Johnson in exchange for Donte Jackson was a positive move, providing Bryce Young with a target that can swiftly create separation. However, there remains a lack of explosiveness in the position, and the Panthers could benefit from more young talent following Jonathan Mingo’s underwhelming rookie season.
Interior Offensive Line
The Panthers have heavily invested in free agent guards to strengthen the interior line for the upcoming season. This will likely move Austin Corbett to center, forming a strong unit on paper. Nevertheless, Corbett’s injury history and the lack of depth at the position raise concerns. Considering Corbett’s potential free agency departure after next season, securing a backup center would be beneficial.
Tight End
The Panthers currently have one of the weakest tight end groups in the league, with Tommy Tremble as the presumed starter and Ian Thomas and Stephen Sullivan in rotational roles. While Tremble has shown promise, he has yet to surpass 200 receiving yards in any of his three seasons. Thomas has also struggled to reach this mark since his rookie season, and Sullivan primarily serves as depth.
Inside Linebacker
With Frankie Luvu leaving in free agency, the Panthers brought in Josey Jewell. While Jewell and Shaq Thompson form a solid linebacking duo, both will be 30 by the end of the season, and there is a lack of young talent ready to step in should they experience a decline in performance.
Cornerback
Despite the promising performances of 2021 first-round pick Jaycee Horn, his frequent injuries have been a concern. The Panthers lack sufficient young talent in this position, relying on a mix of average veterans and unproven players.
Given the numerous areas that require attention, the Panthers have various needs to address in the upcoming draft, and they have the opportunity to make impactful selections.
