If you’re a fan in Charlotte, you know the vibe. It’s that weird mix of "we’re finally getting somewhere" and "please don’t let us mess this up again." After the Panthers clawed their way to an NFC South title and a Wild Card exit against the Rams, the draft talk has hit a fever pitch. We aren't picking in the top five for once. Honestly, picking at No. 19 feels like a luxury we haven't had in forever. But that also means the "obvious" blue-chip stars will be long gone by the time Dan Morgan's phone rings.
The panthers mock draft 2025 cycle is currently obsessed with finding a pass rusher, and for good reason. Even after snagging Nic Scourton last year—who, let’s be real, looks like an absolute beast—the defensive front still feels a bit thin. You've probably seen a dozen mocks giving us another edge guy. But there’s a quiet growing consensus that the real move might be something different. Something that actually helps Bryce Young take that next massive leap.
The Pass Rush Problem (And Why One Guy Isn't Enough)
Let’s talk about the defense. It was a struggle. According to TruMedia data, the Panthers finished with the second-worst pressure rate in the league last year, hovering around 29.8%. That is basically asking your secondary to cover for an eternity. While Scourton was a revelation with his 5.0 sacks and relentless motor, the depth behind him is... well, it’s sketchy. Princely Umanmielen hasn't quite hit his stride yet, and Jadeveon Clowney isn't getting any younger.
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Why David Bailey is the Name You Keep Hearing
If you look at recent expert boards, Texas Tech’s David Bailey is the name that keeps popping up for that 19th spot. He’s got that twitchy, explosive first step that this team desperately lacks. Imagine him on the opposite side of Scourton. It forces offensive lines to actually make a choice. Right now, they can just slide protection toward the rookie star and dare anyone else to win a one-on-one. Bailey changes that math.
The Sleeper Edge Options
- Matayo Uiagalelei (Oregon): He’s a physical freak. If he’s there at 19, you almost have to take him just for the upside.
- LT Overton (Alabama): A high-pedigree guy who played against the best in the SEC. Morgan loves "dog" mentalities, and Overton fits the bill.
- Zion Young (Missouri): A bit more of a project, but the frame is exactly what Ejiro Evero looks for in his scheme.
The Case for the "Other" Weapon
Here’s the thing most people get wrong about the panthers mock draft 2025. Everyone thinks we're "set" at receiver because of Tetairoa McMillan and Xavier Legette. And yeah, "T-Mac" was incredible—he’s basically a finalist for Rookie of the Year for a reason. But look at the Rams. Look at the Lions. The best offenses in the league don't just have two good receivers; they have a versatile tight end who can ruin a linebacker's day.
Brent Sobleski over at Bleacher Report made a point that really stuck with me. He suggested the Panthers should look at the tight end position to truly unlock Bryce Young. We ranked 26th in passing attack last year. Tommy Tremble had some moments, sure, but he’s more of a solid piece than a "legitimate weapon."
If a guy like Kenyon Sadiq from Oregon or even a top-tier safety like Sonny Styles (if they want to go defense) falls, the Panthers might pivot away from the defensive line. It’s about value. Dan Morgan has been very vocal about "not forcing a need." If the 4th best edge rusher is on the board but the #1 tight end is there? You take the game-changer.
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Breaking Down the Draft Capital
We don't have a mountain of picks, but we have enough to be dangerous. Currently, the Panthers are looking at seven selections.
- Round 1 (No. 19): This is the moneymaker.
- Round 2: We have our own pick here.
- Round 3: Still holding onto this one.
- Mid-Rounds: We’ve got a couple of extra chips, including Minnesota's 5th-rounder.
Losing that second-round pick to Chicago in the Bryce Young trade still stings, but the Rams trade-down from 2024 actually helped replenish the cupboard. It’s a lot better than it looked 12 months ago.
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What Really Matters for April
Honestly, the draft isn't just about the first round. Last year proved that. Jalen Coker was an undrafted find who turned into a dynamic counterpart for McMillan. That’s how you build a roster. You find the Scourtons in the second and the Cokers in the dirt.
If the Panthers go edge at 19, expect them to look at the interior offensive line or safety in the middle rounds. Names like Lathan Ransom (Ohio State) or Cam Jackson (Florida) are players the front office has scouted heavily. They need guys who can stop the run, especially after giving up over 3,000 yards on the ground last year. That's a staggering number. You can't win a Super Bowl—or even a playoff game—if you're a sieve up front.
The Verdict on Strategy
The panthers mock draft 2025 isn't a one-man fix. It's a continuation of the "brick-by-brick" mantra Dan Morgan and Dave Canales have been preaching.
The biggest mistake fans can make is assuming the team will just take the highest-ranked pass rusher available. Morgan has shown he’ll move up (like he did for Scourton) or move down if the value isn't right. If the top-tier edges like Abdul Carter or Mykel Williams are gone—which they will be—don't be shocked if the Panthers look at a "chess piece" player who can play multiple roles.
Actionable Insights for Fans
- Watch the Senior Bowl: This is where Dan Morgan does his best work. Look for high-motor defensive linemen who might be available in Round 2.
- Don't ignore the Secondary: Jaycee Horn is a stud, but he needs help. If a premier corner slides to 19, that's a "Best Player Available" move that makes sense.
- Monitor the TE Market: If the Panthers don't sign a veteran in free agency, tight end becomes a massive priority in the first three rounds.
- Check the Trenches: The interior of the O-line has several expiring contracts. A mid-round guard or center is almost a guarantee.
The path forward is clearer than it's been in years. We have the quarterback. We have the alpha receiver. Now, it’s about the supporting cast and finding someone who can actually get the opposing QB on the ground. It’s going to be a wild spring in Charlotte.