For the sixth straight year, the Carolina Panthers will be selecting in the top 10 of the NFL Draft. Last year, their No. 1 pick went to the Chicago Bears after Carolina traded up in 2023 to select Bryce Young with the top pick.
This time, the Panthers hold the No. 8 overall selection—the same pick they had in 2021. Now, the question becomes what direction they will take.
Over the past three drafts, Carolina has focused on offense, selecting a quarterback in Young, wide receiver Xavier Legette (2024), and offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu (2022). Given that the team remains deep in a rebuild, the Panthers have several options, but many believe they should continue prioritizing offensive weapons to support Young. However, CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso has them going a different route in his latest mock draft.
Trapasso projects Carolina to select Tennessee Volunteers edge rusher James Pearce Jr., finally addressing the void left by Brian Burns.
“Pearce is ready to erupt in Indianapolis, and, yes, the Panthers will eventually get weapons for Bryce Young,” Trapasso wrote. “They also need to replace Brian Burns on the edge. Pearce would be a perfect addition.”
Trapasso’s reference to Indianapolis, of course, pertains to the NFL Scouting Combine, where Pearce is expected to showcase his athleticism. Although he is regarded as one of the top edge rushers in the draft, some concerns remain.
Kyle Crabbs of The 33rd Team recently pointed out that Pearce’s weigh-in at the Combine will be crucial, as he is considered “lean-framed” for the position, reportedly around 245 pounds. Teams may have concerns about his ability to hold up against the physical toll of the NFL. Additionally, Pearce’s past off-field issues could raise red flags, including a December 2023 arrest after being pulled over for speeding and failing to obey police orders.
There is no doubt Carolina needs serious help on the defensive front. After trading away Brian Burns and his 46.5 career sacks to the New York Giants last offseason, the Panthers ranked in the bottom four in sacks last season (32) and finished dead last in pressure percentage (16.2%).
As a Charlotte, North Carolina native, Pearce returning home to begin his NFL career would be a full-circle moment. If he delivers a strong Combine performance, Trapasso’s prediction could gain serious traction.
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