After the Carolina Panthers’ massive haul during the 2026 NFL Free Agency period, general manager Dan Morgan and the rest of the front office will now look to build off the team’s momentum from last season.

Despite the struggles early in the season, Carolina managed to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017 last year. With the organization’s efforts this offseason, the Panthers could be in the mix once again to win the NFC South. However, there are multiple needs that were not addressed in free agency this offseason, which means Morgan must fill the holes in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Here’s what the Panthers’ draft plan could look like following the conclusion of the free agency period.

Originally, the Panthers’ first-round pick was between Utah left tackle Caleb Lomu or the best defensive end available at No. 19. However, Morgan’s aggressiveness in the free agency market this offseason now covers each position, as EDGE Jaelan Phillips and offensive tackle Rasheed Walker will fill those voids in 2026.

Now, Carolina has an opportunity to add some depth behind star defensive tackle Derrick Brown by selecting Florida’s Caleb Banks. While there are concerns regarding his history of injuries, Carolina could be a perfect fit for the 6-foot-6, 327 lbs. defensive tackle, as he can develop under Brown.

The Panthers' secondary unit made great strides throughout the course of the 2025-26 NFL season, but it’s clear that Morgan must address the slot cornerback position in this year’s draft.

Last season, Carolina primarily used 2024 fifth-round pick Chau Smith-Wade to fill the position, but Arizona’s Treydan Stukes would be a terrific upgrade. Stukes finished his final college season with 52 tackles, six pass deflections, and four interceptions, making his 4.33 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine even more impressive.

Carolina’s wide receiver corps is still a work in progress, as the offense could use additional weapons outside of 2025 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.

Oklahoma’s Deion Burks is exactly what the Panthers’ offense needs through the air, as his blazing 4.30 speed will allow head coach Dave Canales to extend the field. Both McMillan and Coker act as big-body frames on offense for the organization, so taking a flyer on Burks in round three gives quarterback Bryce Young a reliable deep threat.

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