Lance Zeirlein of NFL Network has issued his first mock draft of the offseason, and Panthers fans may be startled by the player he projects. Carolina, who currently has the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, finished 5-12 despite improved play from quarterback Bryce Young down the stretch. Surrounded by a substantially better offensive line and promising young playmakers, the Alabama product looked like his collegiate self, but his defense ranked at or near the bottom of most defensive statistics, making it difficult to win games.
Despite the need on the defensive side of the ball, Zeirlein believes the Panthers will address the offense with the first choice in his mock draft.
According to the analyst, the Panthers will select Penn State tight end Tyler Warren with the eighth overall pick.
“Bryce Young’s comeback has revitalized the Panthers, but he still requires more assistance. Warren can be the ideal safety blanket for the third-year quarterback.
Panthers Select Penn State Tight End Tyler Warren In Latest Mock Draft
Tyler Warren the Player
Before evaluating his fit with the Panthers, it’s important to first analyze Tyler Warren as a player. Standing at an unofficial 6’6” and 249 pounds, the Penn State senior possesses the size and athletic traits that could make him a standout at the next level. His versatility allows him to line up in multiple roles—whether in the slot, as an in-line tight end, or even taking snaps in the Wildcat. In the open field, Warren moves fluidly, consistently making defenders miss and gaining extra yards after the catch.
Beyond his playmaking ability in space, Warren also excels in contested situations. His combination of size, athleticism, and reliable hands makes him a difficult matchup for defenders, as he can outjump most opponents and maintain control of the ball through contact. With his elite physical tools and strong football IQ, Warren has the potential to develop into a top-five tight end in the league.
However, despite his upside, he isn’t a flawless prospect and may not be the best fit for Carolina in this mock draft. Many of his college successes stemmed from his superior size and athleticism, an advantage he won’t have as frequently in the NFL. To succeed at the next level, he’ll need to refine his route running. Additionally, while he’s strong and elusive after the catch, he doesn’t consistently break tackles the way a player of his stature should.
Is He the Right Choice?
While Warren is a talented player, selecting him in the top 10 of the draft would be difficult to justify for the Panthers. Supporting Bryce Young is important, but there are better ways to do so. Warren’s weaknesses prevent him from being an elite prospect, and using such a high pick on a good-but-not-great tight end wouldn’t be ideal. If Carolina isn’t sold on Ja’Tavion Sanders as a long-term option, they could target tight ends like Elijah Arroyo or Gunnar Helm later in the draft, allowing them to use their top selection on a more impactful position.
For example, Zeirlein’s mock draft has the Saints selecting edge rusher Mykel Williams one pick after Carolina. Given the Panthers’ need for a pass rusher, Williams would likely be a better choice than Warren, even before factoring in team needs. Instead of using a premium pick on a tight end, Carolina would be better served strengthening its defense early and addressing complementary pieces for Young later in the draft.