
Sat Apr 26 17:10:00 UTC 2025: **Panthers General Manager Busy Ahead of NFL Draft Day 2**
CHARLOTTE, NC – After a whirlwind Friday that saw Carolina Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan execute several trades, including a four-pick swap, the team is poised for a busy Saturday during the later rounds of the NFL Draft. Morgan, joking about his lack of sleep, admitted to needing to check the draft board to recall the team’s first pick of the day (No. 114 overall, originally a Dallas Cowboys selection).
All five of the Panthers’ remaining picks are from other teams, offering Morgan, known for his draft-day maneuvering, further opportunities to make trades. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler’s top 300 prospect list offers insight into potential targets, including:
* **Safety:** Several safeties are on the Panthers’ radar, including Brandon Bowman (Oklahoma), Lathan Ransom (Ohio State), DeMarcco Hellams (Alabama), Abdul Carter (Penn State), Jeremiah Riley (Louisville), and Dorian Strong (Virginia Tech).
* **Defensive Line:** With their need for defensive line depth, the Panthers are reportedly considering Zacchaeus Jackson (Texas A&M), Marquise Walker (Missouri), and JJ Pegues (Ole Miss), amongst others.
* **Linebacker:** The team is also looking at linebackers, with Mason Cobb (Oklahoma State), Noah Bassa (Oregon), Cody Simon (Ohio State), and Shemar James (Florida) as possibilities.
* **Offensive Players:** Potential offensive additions include wide receiver Oronde Gadsden II (Syracuse), and running backs Ollie Gordon II (Oklahoma State) and Hunter Levis (Auburn). The Panthers also have center and offensive line needs, with several players on their list.
While the Panthers have never drafted a player from Clemson, this year could mark a first for the team with Jake Briningstool a potential pick. The team’s focus will be on securing value and addressing their needs with remaining picks. Morgan’s history suggests that the Panthers will remain active throughout the day, making Saturday a significant day for the team’s roster shaping.