Carolina Panthers NFL Mock Draft: Building a Contender in 2023

Overview

The Carolina Panthers are on the verge of a new era, with a new head coach in Frank Reich and a young, talented roster. The upcoming NFL Draft will be crucial for the Panthers as they look to build a contender. Here is a seven-round mock draft for the Panthers, addressing their needs and building a foundation for success.

Round 1, Pick 9: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

The Panthers need a franchise quarterback, and Bryce Young is the best player available. Young has all the tools to be a star in the NFL, with his accuracy, arm strength, and mobility. He would be a major upgrade over Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker.

Round 1, Pick 10: Peter Skoronoski, OT, Northwestern

The Panthers need to protect Young, and Skoronoski is one of the best offensive tackles in the draft. He is a powerful blocker with a good understanding of leverage. He would be a great addition to the Panthers' offensive line.

Round 2, Pick 39: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

The Panthers need to get more pressure on the quarterback, and Carter is one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the draft. He is a powerful and athletic player who can create havoc in the backfield. He would be a great addition to the Panthers' defense.

Round 2, Pick 63: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina

The Panthers need more weapons on offense, and Downs is one of the most productive receivers in the country. He is a quick and shifty player who can create separation and make big plays. He would be a great target for Young.

Round 3, Pick 95: Lukas Van Ness, OLB, Iowa

The Panthers need more depth at outside linebacker, and Van Ness is a rising star. He is a versatile player who can rush the passer and drop into coverage. He would be a great addition to the Panthers' defense.

Round 4, Pick 123: Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina

The Panthers need more talent at cornerback, and Rush is a physical and athletic player who can play man-to-man coverage. He would be a good complement to Jaycee Horn.

Round 5, Pick 155: Blake Freeland, C, BYU

The Panthers need to upgrade their center position, and Freeland is a solid and experienced player who can anchor the offensive line. He would be a good addition to the Panthers' offense.

Round 5, Pick 162: Daniel Scott, S, California

The Panthers need more depth at safety, and Scott is a versatile player who can play both free and strong safety. He is a good tackler and can also cover in the slot. He would be a good addition to the Panthers' defense.

Round 6, Pick 196: Nolan Smith, OLB, Georgia

Smith is a talented pass rusher who can also drop into coverage. He would be a good addition to the Panthers' defense.

Round 7, Pick 234: Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina

Rush is a physical and athletic cornerback who can play man-to-man coverage. He would be a good addition to the Panthers' defense.

Conclusion

This mock draft addresses the Panthers' needs and builds a foundation for success. With Bryce Young at quarterback, the Panthers would have a franchise player to build around. The addition of Peter Skoronoski would give Young a solid left tackle to protect him. Jalen Carter would add some much-needed pass rush to the defense, and Josh Downs would give Young a reliable target in the passing game. The Panthers would still have some holes to fill, but this mock draft would be a good start to building a contender.