Here's why the Carolina Panthers must consider making a massive move during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
As the Carolina Panthers continue to navigate their way through the 2026 NFL offseason, general manager Dan Morgan has done an excellent job so far of retooling the roster for the upcoming season.
During the 2026 NFL Free Agency period, the Panthers were able to acquire multiple key veterans on the defensive side of the ball, including EDGE Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. In addition to the stout signings on defense, Carolina also made an underrated move on the offensive line by landing left tackle Rasheed Walker on a one-year, prove-it deal.
Now, the next task at hand for Morgan and the rest of the front office will be the 2026 NFL Draft. After making the playoffs for the first time since 2017, the Panthers possess the No. 19 pick in this year’s draft, putting the franchise in a less-than-ideal position in round one.
However, despite having a rough positioning on Day One, this opens the door for Carolina to select the best player available at pick No. 19. But, in order to truly walk away from the upcoming draft in a far better position for the future of the organization, the best-case scenario for the Panthers may be trading back.
Why Trading Back is Perfect for Carolina
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Quarterback Ty Simpson throws during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.One of the major concerns surrounding this year’s draft class is the number of high-end prospects at the top of the board.
Many NFL Draft analysts have already claimed that there is a limited number of players with a true first-round grade, making the back half of the first round and the early second round interchangeable when looking at the class as a whole.
The two primary needs for the Panthers this offseason were addressing the pass rush and the linebacker position, both of which were filled with Phillips and Lloyd in free agency. Since Carolina does not have any pressing needs this offseason, trading back in round one would give the franchise extra draft capital in either this year or the following draft.
Looking at some of the potential trade partners for the Panthers, the value of pick No. 19 will likely be determined by Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. If a team like the Arizona Cardinals wants to trade back into the first round for the young star, Carolina’s pick is the perfect spot, as it ensures that Simpson will not fall to the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Cleveland Browns.
Panther Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Carolina Panthers. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.