NFL Network’s Lance Zeirlein has released his first mock draft of the offseason, and Panthers fans might be surprised by the player he projected. Currently holding the eighth-overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Carolina went 5-12 despite improved play by quarterback Bryce Young down the stretch. Surrounded by a dramatically improved offensive line and promising young playmakers, the Alabama product looked like his collegiate self but struggled to win games thanks to a defense that ranked at or near the bottom of most defensive statistics.
Despite the need on the defensive side of the ball, Zeirlein has the Panthers addressing the offense with the first pick of his mock draft. According to the analyst, the Panthers will choose Penn State tight end Tyler Warren with the eighth overall selection.
“Bryce Young’s turnaround has given life to the Panthers, but he still needs more help. Warren can become the perfect safety blanket for the third-year quarterback.”