How can the Carolina Panthers repeat as NFC South champions? It all starts with a good offseason.
General manager Dan Morgan got the party started early with a strong group of free agent signings. His next test will be an even bigger one: the 2026 NFL Draft.
Morgan worked to upgrade the biggest weak points on the Panthers' roster in free agency when he signed linebacker Devin Lloyd, edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and offensive tackle Rasheed Walker. Each player was among the best available in free agency at his position, but Carolina still needs more young talent on the roster to complement the veterans.
2026 NFL DRAFT: Odds for total players drafted at each position in first round
Headed into the 2026 NFL Draft, the Panthers have seven picks – six of their own, plus one acquired from the Vikings in the Adam Thielen trade. If Carolina wants to start a streak of NFC South titles, nailing its picks in the draft is the way to set up the Panthers for sustained success around quarterback Bryce Young.
Here's a look at the Panthers' collection of picks in the upcoming NFL draft, along with their draft needs and a mock draft of potential fits at each pick.
1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana2. New York Jets – David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
3. Arizona Cardinals – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
5. New York Giants – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
7. Washington Commanders – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
10. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
11. Miami Dolphins – Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami (Fla.)
12. Dallas Cowboys – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
18. Minnesota Vikings – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
22. Los Angeles Chargers – Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (Fla.)