Carolina Panthers 2025 mock draft 9.0: Here's what they should do

[ASFN Admin]

Carolina Panthers fans have spent the majority of the lead-up to the 2025 NFL draft wondering what their team will do when they hit the clock later this month. But how about determining what they should do?

So, with just over one week remaining until the start of this year's selection process, let's try to answer that.

Here's our latest seven-round mock, where we take the reins for the Panthers' draft plans . . .

First round (No. 18 overall, via SEA): Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona​

Trade

Seattle Seahawks acquire: No. 8

Panthers acquire: No. 18, No. 50, No. 175

While taking the best available talent with a top-10 overall pick is enticing, acquiring more draft capital for a roster that needs youth and competition should seriously be considered here. So, we trade back, pick up more ammunition and land arguably the best wideout in the class.

Given that he doesn't offer an entirely elite skill set, McMillan might not be worth a shot at No. 8. But he is at No. 18—with his 6-foot-4 frame, wide catch radius and rock-solid ball skills.

Second round (No. 50 overall, via SEA): Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA​

After Alabama's Jihaad Campbell, Schwesinger is arguably the best inside linebacker in this class. His range, coverage ability, stout tackling technique and football intelligence make him a starting MIKE in the NFL right away in any defensive front.

Second round (No. 57 overall, LAR): Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss​

As many of the faithful are hoping, the Panthers are able to secure an offensive playmaker and a promising edge rusher within the first two rounds. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound Umanmielen is coming off a 10.5-sack that earned him a first-team All-SEC nod.

Third round (No. 74 overall): Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College​

Starting right tackle Taylor Moton is entering the final year of his contract. Trapilo, a massive human being at 6-foot-8 and 316 pounds, has the reach and great movement skills that worth building on as a potential successor.

Fourth round (No. 111 overall): Billy Bowman, S, Oklahoma​

Whether or not they ultimately sign a veteran safety, the Panthers at least need some depth on the backend of their defense. Bowman, who recorded 11 interceptions over the last three years, has elite ball skills that should translate to the next level.

Fourth round (No. 114 overall, via DAL): Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State​

Parrish, one of the very top nickel corners in the class, is a great press-man defender with quality tackling ability. He can challenge 2024 fifth-rounder Chau Smith-Wade at the position this upcoming season.

Fifth round (No. 140 overall, via NYG): RJ Harvey, RB, Central Florida​

Carolina has been keeping an eye on Day 3 running back prospects. Harvey is a creative runner with some pop between his pads.

Fifth round (No. 146 overall): Que Robinson, EDGE Alabama​

The Panthers should consider double-dipping at edge rusher. Robinson offers an intriguing toolkit, and could prove to be a strong developmental pick here.

Fifth round (No. 163 overall, via BAL): Jaylin Lane, WR, Virginia Tech​

Even with their leading return man Raheem Blackshear back in the fold, the Panthers should look to add competition on special teams. Lane, who is also an explosive playmaker on offense, has the speed and experience as a returner to elevate that role for the unit.

Sixth round (No. 175 overall, via SEA): Tonka Hemingway, DL, South Carolina​

More depth along Carolina's defensive line would be welcomed at any point of the draft.

Seventh round (No. 230 overall, via ARZ): Benjamin Yurosek, TE, Georgia​

Yurosek could quickly develop into a contributing playmaker behind Ja'Tavion Sanders and Tommy Tremble.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Carolina Panthers 2025 mock draft 9.0: Here's what they should do

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