Carolina Panthers 7-Round Mock Draft: Pre-Free Agency Edition
It's officially mock draft season here at All Panthers on FanNation/SI. Each Sunday leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, we will release a new full, seven-round Carolina Panthers mock.
PREVIOUS MOCKS
Carolina Panthers 7-Round Mock Draft: Pre-Combine Edition
Carolina Panthers 7-Round Mock Draft: Post-Combine Edition
RD 2, Pick 33: C Zach Frazier, West Virginia
I had Frazier in this spot in my first mock, and with the news of Bradley Bozeman being released, it cements Frazier as the pick for me. Sure, you could go receiver here, but it's a deep class and there's no reason to force a WR here. Take the best player available and if Frazier makes it out of the first, you take him.
RD 3, Pick 65: LB Payton Wilson, NC State
Wilson was sort of on my radar earlier on in his career but the injuries became a concern for me. They still are, no question, but he's definitely worth the shot in the third round. Another player that fits the identity of what Dan Morgan is looking for to a T.
RD 4, Pick 100: WR Brenden Rice, USC
Rice had a breakout campaign in 2023, setting single-season career highs in receptions (45), receiving yards (791) and touchdowns (12). He's got great length and size at 6'3", 205 lbs, but needs to improve consistency versus man coverage. Rice won't be a No. 1 option right away and he may never develop into anything more than a solid No. 3, but he has an intriguing skillset.
Round 5: Pick 141 (via TEN): TE Jared Wiley, TCU
After seeing minimal action at Texas, Wiley transferred to TCU and developed into a quality receiving threat. This season, he led the Frogs with 47 receptions and eight touchdowns. Big, physical presence over the middle of the field who can absorb big hits. He may not be Brock Bowers, but he's my favorite tight end in this class to watch.
Round 5: Pick 165 (via SF): CB Jarius Monroe, Tulane
Monroe is a two-time All-AAC First-Team selection, totaling 97 tackles, 18 passes defended, six interceptions, and 4.5 tackles for loss over the past two seasons. Decent size at 6'1", 205 lbs and has room to fill out a little more too.
Round 6: Pick 177 (via ARI): RB/S Sione Vaki, Utah
Vaki is an interesting two-way player. I think his future is on the defensive side of the football, but he can add some value on special teams as a returner. Plays with good speed and can make plays downhill in the run game. Once he spends more time on defense, he'll develop into a quality DB.