Scouts and general managers are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Carolina Panthers set to pick 19th overall. The team has seven selections this year and will continue updating fans on their choices at Panthers.com.
Tight end Kenyon Sadiq from Oregon is one of the top prospects mentioned in early mock drafts. “Sadiq is the best tight end in the draft, and it’s not close. He can run, block well and has great hands. His eight receiving touchdowns were the most of any tight end in FBS, making him a big-time red zone threat, as well.”
The report notes that Carolina may consider adding more offensive weapons for quarterback Bryce Young, who has shown improvement following last year’s addition of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan.
Linebacker CJ Allen from Georgia is also highlighted as a potential pick to address a possible gap in the defense. “Allen is a read-and-react player who sees it and goes. In 2025, Allen had 97 tackles. He also can chip in with the pass rush, and you’ll see him drop in coverage on tape.”
Other defensive prospects discussed include Sonny Styles from Ohio State and Cashius Howell from Texas A&M. “The Buckeyes ‘backer brings a scintillating combination of athleticism and length, and he’s always around the ball. Styles racked up 21.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, nine passes defensed, and three forced fumbles over the past three seasons for Ohio State.” Regarding Howell: “His 12 sacks are tied for fourth among all edge defenders in America this year.”
Wide receiver Makai Lemon from USC is another possibility: “Makai Lemon is a smaller slot receiver who is grounded through the catch, a complement to McMillan’s skill set.”
The Panthers finished last season as NFC South champions with an 8-9 record after going 5-12 in 2024. Team officials view this draft as important for defending their division title and making further progress.
The Panthers have been part of the National Football League since their formation as an expansion team in 1995. They represent both North and South Carolina with operations centered in Charlotte, where they play home games (official website). Over their history, they have secured multiple division titles and playoff appearances (official website), including reaching the Super Bowl in 2003 (official website). The organization emphasizes building a championship culture while engaging fans across both states through community outreach programs (official website) and offering various ticket options for supporters (official website).