The 2026 NFL Draft is officially on the horizon, and the Carolina Panthers have some massive decisions to make. In today’s video, I’m breaking down my first full mock draft of the season!
We’re prioritizing the "trenches and targets" strategy to help Bryce Young take that next step. We start strong by bolstering the offensive line with Spencer Fano and Logan Jones, ensuring the pocket stays clean. Then, we add some elite bloodlines to the defense with linebacker Josiah Trotter—could he be the heartbeat of this defense for the next decade?
I’m also diving into the late-round steals like Michael Trigg and Bryce Lance, who bring massive frames and red-zone mismatch potential to the Queen City.
The Draft Class:
OL Spencer Fano (Utah): Elite athleticism to solidify the tackle or guard spot.
LB Josiah Trotter (Missouri): The "Family Business" comes to Carolina.
TE Michael Trigg (Baylor): A 6'4" mismatch nightmare.
DL Skyler Gill-Howard (Texas Tech): A high-motor disruptor for the interior.
S Jalen Stroman (Notre Dame): A physical, hard-hitting presence in the secondary.
WR Bryce Lance (NDSU): Speed and size (4.34 40!) from the FCS powerhouse.
C Logan Jones (Iowa): The next great Iowa center to lead the O-line.
What do you think of these picks? Let me know in the comments who YOU want the Panthers to take!
