The Carolina Panthers are getting ready for the 2025 NFL Draft, after finishing the 2024 regular season at 5-12. Improving the offense around quarterback Bryce Young is a top priority. Targeting premier offensive talents can give Young the support needed to elevate the Panthers’ offensive performance. Here are some top offensive prospects from the 2024 college football season who will be instrumental in achieving this goal:
1. Will Campbell – Offensive Tackle (LSU)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 38
- Snaps Played: 2,553
- Sacks Allowed: 2
- Penalties: 6
Why He Fits the Panthers: Measuring in at 6’6″ and 323 lbs, Will Campbell has been a stalwart on LSU’s offensive line. He demonstrates exceptional pass protection. He also showcases run-blocking skills. His consistency and durability are obvious from his extensive playing time and minimal sacks allowed over his collegiate career. Adding Campbell to the Panthers’ offensive line would enhance Bryce Young’s protection. It would allow for more time in the pocket. This addition reduces pressure-induced errors. Campbell’s presence would also bolster the run game, contributing to a more balanced and effective offensive strategy.
Taylor Moton, the Panthers current starting Right Tackle, is entering the final year of his 4-year extension signed in 2021. The Panthers will look to shore up the right side of the Offensive Line. This move would be to further protect Young under center.
2. Tetairoa McMillan – Wide Receiver (Arizona)
Overall College Stats (3 seasons):
- Receptions: 213
- Receiving Yards: 3423
- Touchdowns: 26
- Average Yards per Catch: 16.1
Why He Fits the Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 212 pounds. He offers a formidable target with a proven track record of productivity. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches would give Bryce Young a reliable deep-threat choice. McMillan’s presence opens up the offense, drawing defensive attention and creating opportunities for other playmakers. His impressive college stats highlight his potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.
Pairing McMillian with last year’s 1st round pick Xavier Legette would create a formidable duo. This would allow Bryce Young to grow with them in Charlotte.
3. Ashton Jeanty – Running Back (Boise State)
Overall College Stats:
- Rushing Attempts: 374
- Rushing Yards: 4769
- Touchdowns: 50
- Receptions: 80
- Receiving Yards: 862
- Receiving Touchdowns: 6
Why He Fits the Panthers: Ashton Jeanty is a versatile running back. He excels in both the rushing and passing game. His dual-threat capability would enhance the Panthers’ backfield. Jeanty would provide Bryce Young with a reliable check-down option. He also contributes to the ground attack. Jeanty can accumulate yards after contact. He is proficient in pass protection. Together, these skills make him a well-rounded addition to the offense.
Imagine a backfield with Jeanty and incumbent Chuba Hubbard in Charlotte. Yes, the Panthers drafted RB Jonathan Brooks in the 2nd round in 2024. Unfortunately, Brooks will miss the entire 2025 season with a leg injury. Plus who knows if Brooks will be the same player after basically missing 2 years of his playing career? Panthers will double down and select the Heisman Trophy runner-up.
4. Luther Burden III – Wide Receiver (Missouri)
Overall College Stats (3 seasons):
- Receptions: 192
- Receiving Yards: 2263
- Touchdowns: 21
- Average Yards per Catch: 11.8
Why He Fits the Panthers: Luther Burden III brings explosive playmaking ability and precise route-running to the table. His knack for creating separation and making plays after the catch would be invaluable assets for Bryce Young. Burden’s versatility allows him to line up across various receiver positions. This enables creative offensive scheming. It keeps defenses off balance and enhances the Panthers’ aerial attack.
5. Kelvin Banks – Offensive Tackle (Texas)
Career Stats:
- Games Played: 36
- Snaps Played: 2,400
- Sacks Allowed: 3
- Penalties: 5
Why He Fits the Panthers: Kelvin Banks stands at 6’4″ and weighs 320 lbs. He has been a cornerstone of Texas’s offensive line the past 2 seasons. Banks showcases exceptional athleticism and technique. He can neutralize elite pass rushers and also contributes to the run game. These skills make him an ideal candidate to protect Bryce Young’s blind side. Banks’ addition would solidify the offensive line, providing stability and confidence for the Panthers’ young quarterback.
Conclusion
Integrating any these offensive prospects into the Carolina Panthers’ roster would solve key areas of need. It would also give Bryce Young with the tools necessary to succeed. Enhancing the offensive line with talents like Will Campbell and Kelvin Banks would offer improved protection. Adding dynamic playmakers like Tetairoa McMillan or Luther Burden III would elevate the receiving corps. Ashton Jeanty’s versatility out of the backfield would further diversify the offensive attack. Strategic selections in the 2025 NFL Draft set the foundation for a potent and balanced offense in Carolina.
Desmond Johnson co-hosts “Bleav in Panthers with Panthers all time leading rusher Jonathan Stewart every Tuesday morning on Bleav Podcast Network.
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