Carolina Panthers projected to take electrifying pass rusher in latest mock draft

This would go a long way in helping fix Carolina's defense.

Sep 7, 2024; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Marshall Thundering Herd defensive lineman Mike Green (15) sacks Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Kyron Drones (1) during the first quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images / Peter Casey-Imagn Images

While Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan and Penn State TE Tyler Warren have been often thrown around as potential fits for the Carolina Panthers at No. 8 in the 2025 NFL Draft, it might be wise for GM Dan Morgan to focus more on the defensive side of the football.

Carolina fielded a historically bad defense this past fall, and they have to find some sort of a pass rush, or they could have many of the same issues that troubled them in 2024.

Fortunately for Morgan, he'll have a few intriguing options at the top of the draft. Abdul Carter would have been the perfect fit, but after his strong finish to the season, there's no way he's falling to No. 8. In fact, he may be the top overall pick.

In The 33rd Team's latest mock draft, Kyle Crabbs projects the Panthers to select Marshall edge rusher Mike Green.

Crabbs' explanation of the pick:

Sep 7, 2024; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Marshall Thundering Herd defensive lineman Mike Green (15) celebrates after sacking Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Kyron Drones (1) during the first quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images / Peter Casey-Imagn Images

"Mike Green left Mobile, Alabama as one of the hottest names in the class. His pass rush resume at Marshall speaks for itself and Green dominated the week of practice against a good group of offensive linemen. Accordingly, he’s put himself in position to be one of the top pass rushers drafted, and few teams have a bigger need for defensive playmakers than Carolina.”

Marshall edge Mike Green - who had the practice field buzzing after this rep earlier today in 1-on-1’s - has opted to withdraw from the rest of the Senior Bowl week and head home to continue with his draft prep.

He led the FBS with 17.0 sacks this season. pic.twitter.com/vpdw45vosm

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) January 30, 2025

More on the player

Green began his career at Virginia, mainly serving as a rotational/depth piece. He transferred to Marshall in 2023, and in his first season with the Herd, he turned in 43 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. He wrapped up his collegiate career as one of the most feared pass rushers in the country, tallying 84 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, and 17 sacks.

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