The Carolina Panthers had the worst record in the NFL last season but missed out on the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft due to a previous trade with the Chicago Bears for Bryce Young. As a result, they ended up with the 32nd overall pick after trading back into the first round with the Buffalo Bills. Despite the setbacks, the Panthers maneuvered through the draft to secure seven picks across all rounds, adding new talent to a team that has struggled with both performance and stability.
The Panthers have seen considerable coaching changes due to poor results and impatient ownership. For the 2024 season, Dave Canales will take over as head coach, inheriting a team that finished 2-15 last year. With a focus on improvement, Canales will have to assess the competition between veterans and rookies for starting roles.
One notable rookie, Xavier Legette, was highly valued by the Panthers, prompting them to trade back into the first round to draft him. Legette is a versatile playmaker capable of contributing as a receiver, running back, and kick returner. The Panthers’ recent trade to acquire Diontae Johnson from the Pittsburgh Steelers aims to solidify the WR1 spot, but Legette could challenge veteran Adam Thielen for the WR2 position. Thielen, 34, had a productive season despite the team’s struggles, with over 1,000 yards and 103 receptions. Legette’s unique skill set could see him in a specialized role similar to Deebo Samuel of the San Francisco 49ers.
At running back, Jonathan Brooks, drafted 46th overall, will compete with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders. The Panthers’ running game was a rare bright spot last season, with Hubbard and Sanders combining for over 1,300 yards. However, Brooks, despite an ACL injury that ended his previous season, was a standout at Texas with 1,139 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. If he recovers well, Brooks could become a significant contributor as the season progresses.
Tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, drafted 101st, is expected to challenge Tommy Tremble. Tremble had a quiet season with 23 receptions for 194 yards and three touchdowns, contributing to Bryce Young’s league-worst QBR when targeting tight ends. Sanders, the record-holder for most career receptions by a tight end at Texas, is poised to make an immediate impact as a pass-catching threat.
The 2024 season will be critical for the Panthers as they integrate these rookies and attempt to rebound from their recent struggles. The battles between established veterans and incoming talent will be key to their progress.
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