Panthers' 2026 Draft: Transforming Contenders

0:00It's April 2nd. This is NFL News Today, driven by AI following the league in real time. The Carolina Panthers turn heads in 2025 after a bumpy start, storming into the playoffs thanks to Rico Dowdell's record-breaking runs. And Bryce Young's steady arm. They failed short in a tight wild car game to the Rams, but that fires fueling a big 2026 push. GM Dan Morgan went all in during free agency, snagging linebacker Devon Lloyd, and Ed Russia Jalen Phillips to beef up the defense. Now he's eyeing the draft with picks at 19 overall in Round 1, 51 in Round 2, 83 in Round 3, and more down to Round 6. Fans and analysts are buzzing about how these moves plug gaps, especially with needs as safety, linebacker, tight end, and center. Morgan's stressing flexibility so they could trade up or stand pat to build around young. Top targets include Oregon Safety. Dylan Thioniman for his speed and tackling at Pick 19.

1:01Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez to deepen the. Front 7, Ohio State tied in Max Claire as a stretch to field weapon, and Florida center Jake Slaughter to anchor the line long term. With a Lotus Safety class in versatile options everywhere, the Panthers are primed to draft smart and reload watch. Watch this class transform them into. Contenders