Sean Payton’s Denver Broncos weren’t sitting still. They kicked off trade talks to jump up from No. 20 in the 2025 NFL Draft, hoping to strike a deal with the Carolina Panthers. And it went through, as Bryce Young’s Panthers slide back to the 20th pick but scoop up extra picks at No. 85 and No. 208. Meanwhile, the Broncos leaped up to No. 8 and snagged picks No. 111 and No. 230 along the way.
With nine total picks, the franchise had some serious decisions to make. The most focused positions for them will be edge rusher, especially after bringing in Jadeveon Clowney, D.J. Wonnum, and Pat Jones from Minnesota. Still, they’ll be eyeing more talent to add firepower. Then, safety is another priority. They just signed Tre’Von Moehrig from the Raiders, but they’re looking for a ball-hawking safety to pair with him. And yes, don’t be surprised if they take a wide receiver too. With some solid names already on the roster, getting Bryce Young another playmaker could be too tempting to pass up.
Round 1, 20th Overall: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
With Mason Graham and Jalon Walker likely off the board by No. 10, Carolina could make a strong move for Mykel Williams. At 6’5″ and 260 pounds, he already looks like a perfect fit for the Panthers’ defense.
Sure, he never had more than five sacks in college, but head coach Dave Canales loves building up raw talent, just like he’s doing with Xavier Legette. If Williams taps into his strength and athleticism, Carolina could end up landing a real gem.
Round 2, 57th Overall: Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
The Panthers made a smart move by bringing in Tre’von Moehrig to handle business close to the line. But let’s be real, they still need a true ballhawk deep downfield. And with a long stretch between their first and second picks, Dan Morgan might not want to wait around. There’s real buzz: he could work a trade with his old buddy John Schneider in Seattle, sliding ahead of Tampa Bay, which is also eyeing a safety. That’s where Xavier Watts comes in.
Jan 9, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jack Kiser (24) defensive lineman Howard Cross III (56) safety Xavier Watts (0) and quarterback Riley Leonard (13) and cornerback Christian Gray (29) celebrate deafening the Penn State Nittany Lions in the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The kid’s a flat-out playmaker, leading the country with seven picks in 2023 and grabbing six more in 2024. He’s tough, smart, and a natural leader, winning the Bronko Nagurski Award and wearing the captain’s patch two straight years. At 6’0″, 205 pounds, Watts would bring the ball skills Carolina’s been missing forever. If it all clicks, pairing him with Moehrig could finally give this defense the spark it’s been dying for.
Round 3, 74th Overall: Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
The Panthers just couldn’t find that spark on offense last season. Even when Bryce Young started heating up, the unit still dragged, ranking near the bottom in big plays and yards per throw. That’s why a guy like Jaylin Noel feels like a breath of fresh air. He’s quick, electric, and knows how to break free, whether he’s running routes or making plays after the catch.
At 5’10”, 194 pounds, he’s got the speed to stretch defenses and the burst to leave defenders chasing. And here’s the bonus – he’s a proven returner too, something the Panthers still haven’t locked down. With his knack for flipping the field, Noel could be the jolt this offense has been missing.
Round 4, 85th Overall: Mitchell Evans, TE, Notre Dame
Mitchell Evans showed real heart at Notre Dame. After tearing his ACL at the end of 2023, he didn’t just come back – he came back leading the team with 43 catches in his senior year. That kind of fight says everything.
At 6’5″ and 258 pounds, he’s a big, tough target who still managed to run a 4.74 in the 40-yard dash. He’s not just about catching passes either. Evans loves to block and isn’t afraid to get physical. With that mix of size, speed, and toughness, he’s got a real shot to see the field early, even if it’s just in a rotation at first. He could be a great aide to Bryce Young.
Round 4, 114th Overall: Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
Cameron Williams is everything Bryce Young and the Panthers want in an offensive tackle. At nearly 6’6″ and 317 pounds, he’s built like a wall. But what stands out is how smoothly he moves for his size. His footwork is clean, and he keeps his pads low, which lets him absorb power without losing strength.
In pass protection, he’s steady, rarely out of position, and always ready to control the edge. When it comes to the run game, he’s a powerhouse, easily moving defenders and making space. He’s got the tools, and he’s ready to use them this year.
Round 5, 140th Overall: Jarquez Hunter, RB, Auburn
The Panthers might repeat a smart move they made last year, picking an offensive weapon in the fourth round. This time, instead of another tight end, they could bring in a powerful running back to back up Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle.
Hunter, a 5’9″, 204-pound bruiser, has the strength to back it up. He was even a state powerlifting champion in high school. Over his last two seasons at Auburn, he rushed for over 2,000 yards, proving he’s built to move the chains and fight for those tough yards. Someone like him can beef up Bryce Young and the Panthers.
Round 5, 146th Overall: Kobe King, LB, Penn State
Kobe King brings a lot to the table. He’s a physical player, a former team captain, and has a football IQ that stands out. Though he’s still working on his pass coverage, his potential is undeniable. In addition, his impact on special teams could be immediate, and with a bit of development, he could be a reliable contributor.
King’s a force against the run, and if he sharpens his skills in coverage, he has all the tools to be a solid starter in the NFL. For now, he’ll offer great depth behind Josey Jewell and Trevin Wallace, and his presence on special teams will be a game-changer.
Round 5, 163rd Overall: Alijah Huzzie, CB, North Carolina
The Panthers are looking for more competition at cornerback, and Alijah Huzzie could bring exactly that. He’s a little smaller, but he brings physicality and some serious ball skills. Huzzie’s made a name for himself with his ability to get in on the action, with four interceptions and 18 pass deflections during his time at UNC.
But it’s not just about covering the guy in front of him – he’s got a knack for making plays, even as a punt returner. He showed real promise there with two touchdowns and a solid average, adding value beyond the defensive side. His footwork is sharp, and he’s got this smooth transition that helps him stick with receivers. In addition, he’s tough in run support, never shying away from contact, and even took on blitzing duties.
Round 7, 208th Overall: Ryan Fitzgerald, K, Florida State
Dan Morgan and Dave Canales are all about raising the stakes, even in the kicker spot. Right now, Matthew Wright is the only leg in the room, but that could change. Fitzgerald, who ended the 2024 season perfect – 14 for 14 on field goals – has been a steady force for the Seminoles.
NFL, American Football Herren, USA Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons Jan 5, 2025 Atlanta, Georgia, USA Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young 9 on the field prior to the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta Mercedes-Benz Stadium Georgia USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDalexZaninex 20250105_dwz_sz2_00001
He was clutch during their ACC Championship run in 2023 and stuck it out through last year’s rough 2-10 season. With back-to-back seasons of 90% field goal accuracy, he’s proven his worth. His consistency, leg power, and calm under pressure make him a solid contender for an NFL roster. Now, it’s just up to Bryce Young’s Panthers to take the leap and give him a shot.
With only a few nights left until the 2025 NFL draft, the anticipation is almost unbearable. Bryce Young’s Panthers’ future will start rolling from April 24 with pick No. 20. So, let’s see which NFL prospects they go ahead with on Day 1.
The post Sean Payton Fulfils Panthers’ Draft Day Wish as Bryce Young Gets New Weapons Across Offense in Latest Mock Draft appeared first on EssentiallySports.
