The anticipation for the Carolina Panthers draft picks 2025 reached new heights as fans and analysts closely tracked each selection. Coming off a challenging season, the Panthers used the 2025 NFL Draft to reshape their roster and signal their direction under the current leadership. In this article, we break down each pick, provide expert analysis, and explore what these moves mean for the team's future.

A Complete List of Carolina Panthers Draft Picks 2025

The Panthers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with several needs on both sides of the ball. Here's a quick rundown of Carolina’s selections:

• Round 1, No. 8: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
• Round 2, No. 51: Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M
• Round 3, No. 77: Princely Umanmielen, Edge, Mississippi
• Round 4, No. 111: Trevor Etienne, RB, Georgia
• Round 4, No. 122: Lathan Ransom, S, Ohio State
• Round 5, No. 140 (from Giants): Cam Jackson, NT, Florida
• Round 5, No. 146: (Pick details not specified)
• Round 5, No. 163 (from Ravens): (Pick details not specified)
• Round 7, No. 230 (from Cardinals): (Pick details not specified)

For a detailed selection analysis and updated depth chart, check out ESPN’s full coverage of Carolina Panthers 2025 NFL draft picks.

Breaking Down the Top Panthers Draft Picks

Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona (Round 1, Pick 8)

The Panthers used their top pick to boost their offense with Tetairoa McMillan. As a wide receiver with size and speed, McMillan is expected to make an immediate impact and provide quarterback Bryce Young with a formidable target. Despite defensive needs, Carolina prioritized offensive firepower, signaling faith in their free agent defensive signings. Over the last two college seasons, McMillan tallied 174 catches for 2,721 yards and 18 touchdowns.

Defensive Upgrades: Scourton and Umanmielen

With the selections of Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen in the second and third rounds, the Panthers addressed their need for young, disruptive edge rushers. Scourton, out of Texas A&M, shed weight in the offseason to enhance his speed and quickness, while Umanmielen could be a sign that Carolina is looking to the future at the edge position.

Trevor Etienne and Lathan Ransom

Running back Trevor Etienne, from Georgia, was picked to provide more depth and explosiveness to the backfield—especially with uncertainty around injuries. Defensive back Lathan Ransom, meanwhile, is expected to compete for a starting safety spot, making Carolina’s secondary both younger and stronger.

Trades and Broader Draft Strategy

Carolina was active in trading during the 2025 NFL Draft. One notable move involved sending a package of picks to the Denver Broncos to move up for Scourton. The Broncos, on their end, capitalized on these exchanges to bolster their roster as well. For more about draft trades and how they shaped other teams, read the Broncos’ draft picks and trade details.

Looking across the league, the Panthers’ strategy mirrored the growing trend of getting younger on defense while surrounding a young quarterback with top-level talent. This approach is explored further in USA TODAY’s Broncos draft grades and commentary, which offers a perspective on how top teams are approaching the draft in 2025.

What These Picks Mean for 2025 and Beyond

The 2025 NFL Draft was pivotal for the Carolina Panthers. By targeting a premier wide receiver and multiple defensive talents, they aimed to balance their roster and build around core players. The emphasis on youth and potential means that while instant results are possible, much of the benefit from this draft class may emerge over the next few seasons.

Fans eager to see how the Carolina Panthers draft picks 2025 perform can look forward to training camp and preseason action, where rookies will fight for starting roles. The dynamic between the new players, especially on defense and in the passing game, will shape Carolina’s prospects in a tough division.

Conclusion

Carolina Panthers draft picks 2025 reflect a clear vision: surround Bryce Young with offensive weapons and fortify the defense with young, versatile talent. Draft night decisions, strategic trades, and an emphasis on player potential all signal a renewed direction for the Panthers. Stay tuned during the offseason as these rookies carve out their roles and help define the next chapter in Panthers football.