The Carolina Panthers wrapped up the NFL Draft over the weekend, selecting seven players, including two offensive linemen to help replace departing centers and the injured left tackle Ikem Ekwonu.
The Panthers also added a wide receiver, several defensive backs and a linebacker. Many draft analysts gave Carolina high marks, not only for the players selected, but also for the trades and overall value the team is perceived to have gained.
Head coach Dave Canales said the draft process is about continually building the roster and creating competition across positions.
“It’s going to be the same thing every year — how can we make the 2026 Panthers the best possible unit we can?” Canales said during a post-draft press conference. “If we have guys who bring a certain skill set at any position, to give them a chance to compete and be out there, we just feel like it elevates the whole group.”
In addition to their draft picks, the Panthers signed at least eight undrafted free agents. Those include Duke defensive lineman Aaron Hall, Coastal Carolina wide receiver Malick Meiga and Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King.
Current players are participating in organized team activities, and the team’s mandatory minicamp is scheduled for June 9-11.
