The 2025 NFL Draft is approaching, scheduled to commence on April 24 in Green Bay. As teams prepare and strategize, the Carolina Panthers hold nine draft picks and are evaluating their current roster and potential draft opportunities. One area of focus for the Panthers is the offensive tackle position, with several players set to become free agents at the end of the current season.
Returning players Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton performed well last year, but both are in the final year of their contracts. Other tackles on the team, such as Yosh Nijman, Brandon Walton, and Brady Christensen, are also nearing the end of their contracts, prompting the Panthers to consider their future needs in this position.
Will Campbell from LSU leads the mock drafts as a prominent tackle prospect. Known for his versatility across the line, Campbell has been noted for his performance against pass-rushers and run blocks, despite some concerns about lateral movement.
Armand Membou from Missouri is recognized for his technical game and depth of experience, having started every game at right tackle for two consecutive years. His height, while considered undersized for a tackle, will require teams to balance NFL standards with his college performance.
Ohio State’s Josh Simmons, who transferred from San Diego State before suffering a patellar tendon tear, offers potential as a tackle needing development time. His run game power needs improvement, but his smoothness off the line is an advantage.
Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas collected several prestigious awards, indicating his potential value in both tackle and guard positions. With a quick and effective blocking style, he has impressed scouts.
Josh Conerly from Oregon, and Ozzy Trapilo from Boston College, present developmental assets for teams willing to invest time in enhancing their skills for NFL play. Both have shown promise in pass protection with various areas for improvement.
Anthony Belton of NC State and Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson from Florida are also notable prospects. Belton’s strength in the run game and Crenshaw-Dickson’s size and athleticism mark them as potential assets for teams looking to bolster their offensive lines with coaching and development.
The Carolina Panthers, along with other teams, will need to balance immediate needs with long-term planning as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft.
