Nearly everyone believed they had a straight read on what the Carolina Panthers were going to do with their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. But we got tossed a curveball instead.
Rather than using last year's eighth overall selection on Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker, like many thought they would, the Panthers grabbed Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan in a bit of a shock. And to their credit, that decision has worked out well thus far—as the All-American pass catcher went on to become Carolina's first AP Offensive Rookie of the Year recipient since 2011 while helping the franchise to their first division title in a decade.
So, could the reigning NFC South champions throw us off yet again?
If the Panthers are to deliver another first-round swerve, here are four possible 2026 draft prospects they could surprise us with at the 19th overall spot:
Head coach Dave Canales, during the league's annual meeting in Phoenix, Ariz. a few weeks ago, had stated that he doesn't believe in drafting for depth—at least as far as the first round goes. But perhaps he was just trying to set up the ol' Uncle Charlie.
While Iheanachor would likely start off as a backup—with Rasheed Walker and Taylor Moton as the projected Week 1 starters at left and right tackle, respectively—his future may be too bright to pass up on. The athletic 6-foot-5, 321-pounder is an extremely impressive mover, and has the tools to be molded into a plus starter—on either side—for years to come.
Capable depth in the offensive trench is a difficult commodity to secure in today's NFL, so Iheanachor may actually end up having an impact as a rookie. And if the Panthers are a little patient, he also could end up as a franchise pillar from 2027 on.
Like Iheanachor, Miller might have to marinate in 2026. He is, however, more of a pro-ready product than his fellow hog molly.
Miller was a rock-solid four-year starter at right tackle for the Tigers. The Strongsville, Ohio native leaves Clemson as a two-time first-team All-ACC selection and brings with him some top-end length and agility.
He or Iheanachor, at the least, could serve as the succession plan for Moton—who might be a cut candidate at 33 years old next season. The two may also provide long-term insurance at left tackle as usual starter Ikem Ekwonu recovers from a torn patellar tendon on the final year of his contract.
Woods was linked to Carolina early and often at the start of the last campaign. But his stock has dropped considerably since, going from a top-10 lock to a fringe first-rounder.
A disappointing 2025 is, in part, to blame—as Woods experienced dips in tackles for a loss, sacks and pressures. His tape was underwhelming too, as he didn't look nearly as dynamic as he did in 2024.
But if Carolina can see beyond that, they may be able to reignite a three-down terror who can stonewall the run and disrupt the pocket. The potential of pairing Pro Bowler Derrick Brown with the 2024 version of Woods should intrigue the Panthers, especially after a letdown from Tershawn Wharton this past year.
Although the Panthers boast one of the top cornerback duos in the NFL with Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson, the help behind them remains painfully thin. The spot in between Horn and Jackson is also a question, as the unit could stand to upgrade their slot defense.
Hood, at nearly six feet and 193 pounds, has some experience on the inside—so he should be able to challenge for the starting nickel job in 2026. He could shift to the outside when needed, or on a more permanent basis if Jackson doesn't re-up after the season.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: 4 potential surprise 1st-round picks for the Panthers