Building Around Bryce: Draft Prospects to Elevate the Panthers
Draft Targets to Unlock Bryce Young's Potential While Propel Carolina into Playoff Contention
As Bryce Young entered his second NFL season, the spotlight was firmly on him to take a significant step forward after a rocky rookie campaign. The Panthers’ offense struggled to find its footing last year, finishing dead last in passing yards, total yards, and points scored—a far cry from the expectations placed on a team with a No. 1 overall pick leading the charge. Yet, despite the challenges, Young’s late-season flashes of brilliance offered a glimpse into the potential that made him the centerpiece of the franchise's rebuild.
Now, in the latter stretch of Year 2, Young has shown noticeable improvement in his decision-making and composure, providing the Panthers with a solid foundation to build upon. With four games remaining on the schedule, it’s clear the team must prioritize surrounding its young signal-caller with better talent, particularly at the skill positions and along the offensive and defensive line.
The upcoming 2024 NFL Draft represents a critical moment for Carolina. By addressing these key areas, the Panthers can give Young the tools he needs to truly thrive and lead the franchise toward a competitive future. This offseason will be pivotal—not just for the growth of their quarterback but for the resurgence of the entire team. If the Panthers play their cards right, they could transform their struggles into a foundation for success, ensuring Young has every opportunity to fulfill his immense potential.
Identifying the Missing Pieces
To help Bryce Young unlock his full potential, the Panthers need to make key upgrades through the 2024 NFL Draft. Addressing critical positions—such as bolstering the offensive line to provide better protection, adding playmakers at wide receiver to elevate the passing game, and strengthening the defense to keep games competitive—will be essential. With these needs in mind, let’s take a closer look at the draft prospects who could make an immediate impact and help shape Carolina’s future.
Round 1
Picks: Abdul Carter DE/EDGE Penn State (4th)
Why Carter is the Perfect Fit for the Panthers at Pick 5
The Carolina Panthers have a golden opportunity to address their defensive struggles by selecting Penn State’s Abdul Carter with the fifth overall pick. Carter, standing at 6’3” and 250 pounds, is a physical marvel whose blend of speed, power, and explosiveness makes him one of the most intriguing edge prospects in the draft. A standout on Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List, Carter clocked an impressive 4.48-second 40-yard dash and showcased his strength with a 350-pound power clean. In 2023, he ranked among the nation’s best in pass-rush win rate, demonstrating his ability to consistently disrupt plays with his quick first step, fluid flexibility, and relentless closing speed. Carter’s knack for pressuring quarterbacks and forcing turnovers would instantly elevate a Panthers defense in need of a game-changing presence.
Adding Carter to the Panthers' lineup would place him alongside Pro Bowler Derrick Brown, who is coming off a historic 2023 season. Brown’s 103 tackles not only broke the NFL record for most tackles in a season by a defensive lineman but also showcased his dominance as a force in the trenches. Since entering the league, Brown has tallied 33 quarterback hits and 21 tackles for loss, ranking among the best in his 2020 draft class. His ability to draw double teams creates opportunities for teammates to make plays—opportunities Carter could capitalize on with his elite athletic traits. The mentorship of veteran outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney further bolsters the fit, offering Carter the guidance needed to refine his technique and thrive as a rookie.
This trio—Brown, Clowney, and Carter—could form a fearsome front that gives opposing offenses nightmares. While Carter’s game still has areas for growth, such as improving open-field tackling and refining his hand techniques, his raw potential and high motor make him a perfect candidate to develop within Carolina’s system. Selecting Carter at pick No. 5 would not only address a glaring defensive need but also provide the Panthers with a cornerstone piece to complement their existing stars. If Carter translates his college dominance to the NFL, the Panthers could be on the verge of assembling one of the league’s most disruptive defensive fronts.
Round 2
Picks: Tre Harris WR Ole Miss (50th)
A Key Piece for Carolina’s Offensive Puzzle
As the Carolina Panthers work to give Bryce Young the tools he needs to elevate their offense, Tre Harris from Ole Miss presents an exciting option in the second round of the draft. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 210 pounds, Harris is a physically dominant wide receiver with the ability to make plays in critical moments. His large catch radius, knack for contested catches, and prowess in the red zone make him a natural fit for an offense searching for reliability and firepower.
Harris made waves in college after transferring from Louisiana Tech to Ole Miss, where he thrived in Lane Kiffin’s fast-paced offense. Across his collegiate career, Harris racked up 3,531 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns, with his final season seeing him notch 60 receptions for 1,030 yards and seven touchdowns. Averaging 17.2 yards per catch, Harris showcased an ability to stretch the field and consistently deliver big plays—something the Panthers sorely need in their passing game.
Injuries, however, have been a storyline for Harris, particularly during his 2024 campaign. A lingering groin issue caused him to miss multiple games and limited his late-season contributions. Despite these setbacks, Harris still managed several standout performances, including an 11-reception, 225-yard, two-touchdown game against Georgia Southern. His immediate impact upon returning from injury—such as a 43-yard touchdown against Florida—demonstrates his resilience and ability to produce under challenging circumstances.
Harris brings traits that align well with Bryce Young’s needs as a developing quarterback. He excels in contested-catch situations, using his size and strength to shield defenders and secure the ball in tight windows. His versatility to operate both on the outside and in the slot adds a layer of adaptability to Carolina’s offense. While he’ll need to sharpen his route-running and improve his ability to create separation, his reliability in high-pressure moments and ability to track deep passes make him a dynamic target.
Adding Tre Harris in Round 2 could be a pivotal move for the Panthers, giving Young a dependable receiver who can grow alongside him. If Harris can remain healthy and refine his skills at the next level, he has the potential to become a key playmaker for Carolina’s offense, helping to transform their passing attack and paving the way for a brighter future.
Round 3
Picks: T.J. Sanders DT South Carolina (72nd)
Building a Defensive Wall for the Future
The Carolina Panthers have a chance to solidify their defensive front with the addition of South Carolina’s T.J. Sanders, a redshirt sophomore defensive tackle who has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most disruptive interior linemen in college football. Standing at 6’5” and 298 pounds, Sanders boasts an ideal combination of size, athleticism, and technique that makes him an intriguing prospect for Carolina in Round 3.
Pairing Sanders with the dominant Derrick Brown and potential first-round pick Abdul Carter could give the Panthers a defensive line capable of wrecking opposing offenses. Sanders' ability to play as a 3-technique defensive tackle would perfectly complement Brown’s power and Carter’s edge speed, creating a well-rounded and fearsome trio. Together, they could form the foundation of a defense that controls the line of scrimmage and consistently disrupts both the pass and run game.
Sanders’ journey from Marion High School to SEC stardom is a testament to his work ethic and development. In 2023, he emerged as a cornerstone for the South Carolina Gamecocks, earning Third-Team All-SEC honors. Sanders led the defensive line with 43 tackles, including 9.5 for loss, and added 4.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to generate consistent interior pressure. His breakout performance against Georgia, where he tallied nine tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack, highlighted his knack for stepping up against elite competition.
What sets Sanders apart is his versatility. With exceptional length and quickness off the line, he can disrupt passing lanes and penetrate the backfield with ease. His relentless motor ensures he’s a factor on every play, and his refined hand technique allows him to shed blocks and make critical stops. Sanders is also effective in both run and pass situations, making him a valuable asset in today’s NFL, where interior linemen are increasingly called upon to rush the passer.
However, Sanders is not without areas for growth. At 298 pounds, he’s slightly undersized for an NFL defensive tackle and may need to add mass to handle double teams and power run schemes. Additionally, his pass-rush moves are still developing, and he occasionally plays with a higher pad level, which can impact his leverage. These are coachable aspects of his game, and his steady improvement trajectory suggests he’s more than capable of addressing them.
For the Panthers, Sanders represents a high-upside addition who could develop into a key piece of their defensive puzzle. His ability to create interior disruption would relieve pressure on Derrick Brown and Abdul Carter, giving Carolina a dynamic and multi-dimensional defensive front. Selecting Sanders in Round 3 would be a strategic move to fortify the trenches and build a defense that can dictate the flow of the game. With his motor, versatility, and untapped potential, Sanders has all the tools to thrive in the NFL and become a cornerstone for the Panthers' future success.
Round 4
Picks:Deontae Lawson LB Alabama (108th), Jonah Monheim (113th)
A Defensive Swiss Army Knife for Carolina
The Panthers may strike gold in the fourth round by selecting Alabama linebacker Deontae Lawson, a player whose versatility and athleticism could inject much-needed energy into Carolina’s defense. At 6’2” and 230 pounds, Lawson has the physical tools and football IQ to become a key contributor at the next level.
Lawson’s rise at Alabama speaks volumes about his potential. After playing sparingly as a freshman, the Mobile native blossomed into a defensive standout in 2023, starting 11 games and finishing second on the team with 67 tackles. Adding 5.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and four pass breakups to his stat line, Lawson showcased a game built on speed, instinct, and playmaking ability. A semifinalist for the Butkus Award, he proved his knack for stepping up in high-pressure moments and thriving in one of college football’s most demanding defenses.
What makes Lawson special is his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. He’s a true sideline-to-sideline defender, closing gaps and chasing down ball carriers with explosive burst. His fluid movement and quick reaction time allow him to diagnose plays quickly and arrive at the ball with authority. When blitzing, Lawson’s timing and agility make him a legitimate threat to collapse the pocket or disrupt quarterbacks on critical downs.
In coverage, Lawson’s instincts and athleticism shine. He’s most comfortable in zone schemes, where his ability to drop back, read the quarterback, and disrupt passing lanes makes him an asset against the modern passing attack. While his man coverage remains a work in progress, Lawson’s overall awareness in the passing game is well above average for a linebacker at this stage in his development.
That said, Lawson’s game isn’t without areas to refine. His block-shedding technique can falter when offensive linemen lock onto him, and he’ll need to work on using his hands more effectively to disengage at the NFL level. Additionally, while his tackling is often highlight-reel worthy, focusing on consistent technique will help eliminate occasional missed opportunities.
For Carolina, Lawson’s versatility and skill set align perfectly with the team’s vision for a more dynamic and aggressive defense. His ability to contribute immediately on special teams adds extra value while he develops into a reliable three-down linebacker. If the Panthers are looking for a high-ceiling prospect who can grow into a centerpiece of their defense, Lawson could be the perfect fit to bring energy and production to the linebacking corps.
Versatility and Intelligence Anchor the Panthers’ O-Line
With the 113th pick in the draft, the Carolina Panthers could land a hidden gem in USC’s Jonah Monheim, a versatile and intelligent offensive lineman who has thrived across all five positions during his collegiate career. Standing 6’5” and weighing 310 pounds, Monheim offers a rare blend of athleticism, football IQ, and adaptability, making him an ideal candidate to solidify Carolina’s offensive line.
Monheim’s journey at USC was defined by consistency and growth. Over 35 career starts, he transitioned seamlessly between guard, tackle, and now center—where he has taken on the responsibility of anchoring the Trojans’ offensive line in 2024. His ability to handle the center role, which requires precision, leadership, and quick decision-making, speaks volumes about his mental toughness and grasp of the game. As a senior, he has earned praise for his composure under pressure and his ability to communicate effectively, traits that will serve him well at the professional level.
What truly sets Monheim apart is his technical polish. In pass protection, his smooth footwork and precise hand placement allow him to mirror defenders and maintain pocket integrity, even against skilled pass rushers. His background as a tackle has given him a unique edge, enhancing his ability to handle edge speed while still excelling in tighter spaces as a center. Teams looking for a lineman with quick reflexes and recovery skills will find Monheim’s film particularly impressive.
In the run game, Monheim’s athleticism and movement skills stand out. While he’s still refining his power at the point of attack, his ability to pull, lead block, and excel in zone schemes highlights his versatility. Whether it’s sealing defenders in wide-zone plays or creating space in gap schemes, Monheim has shown the physicality and agility to fit into a variety of NFL offensive systems.
For the Panthers, Monheim’s positional flexibility is a massive asset. Injuries and lineup adjustments are inevitable in the NFL, and having a lineman capable of filling any spot on the offensive front is invaluable. Monheim could compete immediately for a starting role at center or guard while providing the team with depth across the board.
Selecting Monheim at 113 would bring more than just versatility; it would provide the Panthers with a smart, reliable, and technically sound lineman to help protect Bryce Young and contribute to the team’s offensive evolution. Monheim’s blend of skill, experience, and adaptability makes him a high-upside pick who could quickly become a cornerstone of Carolina’s offensive line.
Round 5
Picks:Dylan Sampson RB Tennessee (140th), Shilo Sanders S Colorado (143rd), Jabbar Muhammad CB Oregon (156th)
Adding Explosiveness to Carolina’s Backfield
The Panthers could inject their offense with a jolt of speed and playmaking ability by selecting Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson. At 5’11” and 200 pounds, Sampson is a dynamic, multi-speed back whose burst and versatility make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball.
Sampson’s path from a three-star recruit out of Louisiana to one of the SEC’s most electrifying players is a testament to his work ethic and natural talent. In 2023, he tallied 604 rushing yards, seven touchdowns, and 175 receiving yards while sharing backfield duties. By 2024, he established himself as a top offensive weapon, leading the SEC with nine rushing touchdowns in just three games to open the season. His elite speed, clocked at 4.35 in the 40-yard dash, has routinely allowed him to outrun defenders, turning broken plays into game-breaking runs.
What sets Sampson apart is his ability to adapt to any offensive scheme. His vision and patience make him a natural fit for zone-heavy run systems, where he can identify cutback lanes and explode into the open field. Sampson also boasts excellent lateral quickness, allowing him to make sharp cuts and leave defenders grasping at air. His balance through contact and ability to bounce off tackles ensure he’s a consistent yardage gainer, even when plays don’t develop as planned.
Sampson’s receiving skills add another layer to his game. With soft hands and precise route-running, he creates mismatches against linebackers, giving offensive coordinators the flexibility to line him up in the backfield or out wide. His versatility as a pass-catcher makes him a modern NFL weapon capable of thriving in today’s spread-heavy offenses.
While Sampson’s size may limit his ability to carry the load as a bell-cow back, his knack for creating explosive plays and his skill set as a change-of-pace option make him an ideal complement in a running back rotation. Improving his pass protection will be key to expanding his role in the NFL, but his intelligence and work ethic suggest he’s more than capable of making the necessary adjustments.
For the Panthers, Sampson would bring explosiveness to the offense, along side Chuba Hubbard. His ability to house it from anywhere on the field forces defenses to stay honest, opening up opportunities for other playmakers. At pick 140, Sampson is a high-upside selection who could make an immediate impact as a versatile, big-play specialist. If utilized effectively, he has the tools to become a game-changer for Carolina’s offense.
A High-Upside Gamble for Carolina’s Secondary
With the 143rd pick in the draft, the Panthers could take a calculated swing on Shilo Sanders, a safety prospect whose NFL bloodline and natural playmaking ability make him a fascinating late-round target. At 6’0” and 195 pounds, Sanders brings an enticing mix of ball skills, versatility, and football IQ that could add depth and potential impact to Carolina’s secondary.
Sanders’ collegiate career has been a winding road, starting at South Carolina before making a name for himself at Jackson State, where he earned Second-Team All-SWAC honors in 2021. He transferred to Colorado for the 2023 season and immediately made his presence felt, finishing with 70 tackles—good for ninth all-time among CU defensive backs in a single season. Despite his ability to produce at each stop, a shoulder injury set to sideline him for six months has clouded his draft stock, raising questions about durability and availability.
On the field, Sanders is a natural playmaker with an impressive feel for the game. His instincts in zone coverage are top-tier, allowing him to read quarterbacks and position himself for turnovers. Sanders has a knack for creating game-changing plays, including an 80-yard pick-six against Colorado State that showcased his speed and ball-hawking ability. His willingness to step up in run support adds another layer to his game, as he’s unafraid to mix it up in the box and take on physical assignments.
While Sanders’ skill set is intriguing, there are areas that need refinement. His tackling technique can be inconsistent, and he occasionally goes for big hits at the expense of securing the stop. His man-to-man coverage also requires improvement to handle the NFL’s diverse passing attacks. Durability is the most significant concern, with a history of injuries that includes an ACL tear and his current shoulder issue.
Despite these challenges, Sanders’ upside makes him an exciting prospect for a team like Carolina. His versatility to play both safety positions and his special teams experience could allow him to contribute as he develops. For the Panthers, Sanders represents a low-risk, high-reward option who, if he can stay healthy, has the potential to grow into a starting role and make an impact in the secondary. At pick 143, Sanders could be the type of value selection that pays dividends down the road, bringing his natural instincts, playmaking ability, and football pedigree to an evolving Panthers defense.
A Smart and Sticky Defender
With the 156 pick in the draft, the Panthers could bolster their secondary with Oregon’s Jabbar Muhammad, a disciplined and versatile cornerback known for his sticky coverage and high football IQ. At 5’10” and 183 pounds, Muhammad thrives in man coverage, where his sharp technique and patient footwork allow him to mirror receivers effectively. He’s equally adept in zone schemes, using strong spatial awareness to take away throwing lanes and disrupt routes. His ball skills and competitive nature make him a reliable defender, particularly in the nickel or slot role where his size is less of a limitation.
While Muhammad’s smaller frame and adequate long speed may raise questions about his ability to handle bigger receivers on the outside, his polished coverage skills and mental acumen make him an intriguing prospect. Tackling consistency is an area for growth, but his willingness to engage in run support shows potential for improvement. For Carolina, Muhammad’s versatility and ability to excel in sub-packages make him a valuable addition to the secondary with the potential to make an immediate impact.