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The first couple phases of NFL free agency are over, and now the 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner.
The Carolina Panthers are going to be an interesting team to watch once the draft kicks off. The team is currently slated to have the No. 8 pick after finishing with a 5-12 record in 2024.
However, the team made some solid additions in free agency and quarterback Bryce Young impressed as the 2024 season went on. Now, the team will look to land a solid starter in round one and take the next step in 2025.
Today, let's identify the three prospects who make the most sense for the Panthers at No. 8.
Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
The Panthers desperately need to improve their defense. The team had by far the worst rush defense in the league, allowing a whopping 3,057 yards on the ground.
The team needs talent everywhere on the unit, and Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker could be the perfect addition. Walker is an elite linebacker prospect who can play as an off-ball backer and contribute as a pass-rusher.
In 2024, Walker racked up 60 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. The linebacker has exceptional speed and coverage instincts while also being a force off the edge.
In Carolina, Walker could immediately start at one of the linebacker positions and give the team a versatile chess piece.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
While the Panthers desperately need defenders of any kind, the team also needs to add weapons for Bryce Young.
If Tet McMillan is available when the Panthers get on the clock, it may be hard for the team to pass him up. The big-bodied receiver has earned comparisions to Drake London and Mike Evans and has the makings to be an elite No. 1 receiver.
In 2024, McMillan caught 84 passes for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns. The receiver has better speed than you would think given his size, and has no problem coming down with 50-50 balls.
In Carolina, McMillan could start on the outside opposite Xavier Legette and beside Adam Thielen.
Malaki Starks, DB, Georgia
Going back to defense, the Panthers should be interested in fellow Georgia defender Malaki Starks.
Starks is an impressive safety prospect who excels in pass coverage and as a run defender. The talented defender was a leader on the Georgia defense and was solid in all phases.
In 2024, Starks racked up 77 tackles, four tackles for loss, and one interception. The defender was even better in 2023, earning First-team All-American honors after securing three interceptions and deflecting seven passes.
In Carolina, Starks could start next to offseason addition Tre'von Moehrig, giving the team a solid one-two punch at safety.
