The Carolina Panthers must prioritize building around quarterback Bryce Young this offseason, and with nine selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, they are well-positioned to do so.
Young has earned another opportunity next season after responding well to being benched—a bold decision by head coach Dave Canales. The move seemed to spark something in the former No. 1 overall pick, and Canales has already confirmed him as the starter for 2025. While there is optimism moving forward, the Panthers cannot afford to be complacent. Strengthening both sides of the ball will be crucial, and with the right additions, they could emerge as a strong wild-card contender.
However, their approach remains uncertain. Limited salary-cap space will likely prevent major free-agent splashes, though roster moves could create additional flexibility before free agency begins. Maximizing their draft selections will be essential, leaving general manager Dan Morgan with plenty of work ahead in the coming months.
Nothing has been finalized, and needs will vary depending on which free agents join the team. Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News took an unexpected approach in his latest 2025 NFL mock draft, ignoring the obvious need on defense to reconnect Young with one of his former college teammates.
The choice, maybe surprisingly, was wide receiver Isaiah Bond.
“After some past troubles with stopping the run, controlling the pass, and giving up points, the Panthers can benefit from going with the greatest defensive player available. But they also need to keep pushing Bryce Young forward with a quick big-play threat, and it helps that he had a solid chemistry with [Isaiah] Bond from Alabama prior to his transfer.”
Vinnie Iyer
Nothing can be discarded with only a few weeks till the draft and evaluation processes are fully underway. However, this would not be too surprising.
It came as a surprise when Bond declared for the draft. The skilled pass-catcher is aiming to capitalize on a lesser receiving class than recent years. He has several useful characteristics to build on. It is unclear whether they are sufficient to earn a top-10 ranking.
This is reliant on two factors. First, the amount of quarterbacks who go before Carolina is on the clock. The more signal-callers are chosen, the more likely one of the blue-chip defensive talents becomes available. Morgan would find it difficult to refuse that offer.
Second, consider the Panthers’ pre-draft moves. If Morgan can fill crucial positions in free agency, the front-office chief will have more flexibility during the selection process.
The Texas prospect is a talented player. Bond is an exciting danger after the catch, knows how to separate quickly, and his pre-existing relationship with Young should assist. What the Panthers need to determine is if he is worth such a significant commitment.
This looks like an overreach. However, Morgan will not hesitate to act if he believes it is in the best interests of the franchise.
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