The Carolina Panthers need to rebuild the defense,
and everyone knows it!
The question is who? As speculation runs rampant surrounding the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, it's clear the Panthers are keeping themselves open to any and all possibilities. Some believe the Panthers are a prime candidate to trade back as a few teams are potentially after Shadeur Sanders, including the division rival New Orleans Saints who pick one selection later at #9. It would be VERY satisfying to deny them their choice of QB.
Todd McShay thinks Mykel Williams will be the selection for Carolina at #8. There are rumors now that both Jacksonville and New England could pass on Michigan DT Mason Graham. He would be a very interesting selection for the Panthers. However, one of the worst kept secrets in the draft is how much GM Dan Morgan and HC Dave Canales love Jalon Walker. To the point where I personally believe all the talks of a trade back is just to generate interest. If Walker is still on the board, Carolina sprints to the podium to draft him at #8 overall!
As the Panthers are a team who needs a little bit of everything defensively, Walker is the cure for what ails you. Walker is a dynamic LB prospect who can line up over the center and blitz on stunts and can create havoc on the edges again opposing OT's. Every team who has interviewed Walker comes away with glowing reviews on everything from his character to his incredible football presence. Many teams are even discussing drafting him top 6, which could really throw a wrench and Carolina's draft plans. Assuming he is available, the Panthers use this opportunity to draft their culture builder on defense for the foreseeable future!
Don't forget to check out the
C3 Panthers Podcast Tuesday nights at 9 PM and 30 minutes after every game to hear us discuss all the latest in Panther Nation!
- Cody Lachney, Panthers Analyst