The Carolina Panthers are projected to select a “powerful playmaker” in the 2025 NFL Draft to strengthen their roster.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Carolina Panthers are poised to make a significant move that could shape the trajectory of their franchise. After a turbulent start to the 2020s, the Panthers are focusing on solidifying their team and ensuring they are competitive for years to come. In their search for the perfect prospect, the Panthers are reportedly looking to draft a “powerful playmaker” who can immediately impact their roster.
The Panthers, who have undergone a series of changes in recent years—ranging from new leadership in the front office to shifts in coaching staffs and player turnover—now find themselves at a critical juncture in rebuilding their team. A powerful playmaker is not only a player who can provide immediate help, but one who has the ability to change the course of games, energize teammates, and take the offense (or defense) to another level. The 2025 NFL Draft provides an opportunity for the Panthers to find just that: a dynamic athlete capable of transforming their roster and adding new dimensions to their gameplay.
In this article, we will dive into what a “powerful playmaker” really means for the Panthers, explore their team needs, and analyze the prospects they might target in the 2025 draft. We’ll also look at how the right selection could elevate the Panthers’ roster and make them a true contender in the NFC.
The Carolina Panthers’ Needs Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft
Before we dive into potential prospects, it’s important to first identify where the Carolina Panthers stand as a team heading into the draft. Over the last few seasons, the Panthers have faced challenges with consistency, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. With a new head coach in Frank Reich, the team is working to establish an offensive identity. Whether it’s through the growth of young quarterbacks, strengthening the offensive line, or providing playmakers at the skill positions, the Panthers are focused on building a team that can compete with the top teams in the NFC.
Key Areas of Focus for the Panthers:
- Quarterback Play – The Panthers’ quarterback situation has been in flux, and despite investing in Bryce Young in the 2023 NFL Draft, there’s still room for growth. While Young has flashed potential, developing him into an elite QB is a long-term project. In the 2025 draft, the Panthers may look to add additional weapons around him to maximize his potential.
- Wide Receiver – Despite having some solid talent at receiver, the Panthers are still looking for a true No. 1 option to complement Adam Thielen and DJ Chark. The need for a receiver who can stretch the field and make big plays is palpable.
- Offensive Line – The Panthers need to continue improving their offensive line to ensure Bryce Young’s long-term success and to open up the running game. A more robust offensive line will help the Panthers’ offensive system reach its potential.
- Defensive Playmakers – The Panthers have solid defensive pieces, but they need to add more talent, particularly in the secondary and at linebacker. Finding a player who can make plays in crucial moments, whether it’s forcing turnovers or getting pressure on the quarterback, will be essential for their success.
What Exactly Is a “Powerful Playmaker”?
In the context of the NFL, a “powerful playmaker” is a player who is not just physically dominant, but also able to influence the course of a game through their presence. These players stand out for their athleticism, vision, and ability to perform under pressure. Whether on offense or defense, a powerful playmaker is someone who can consistently deliver when the game is on the line, creating scoring opportunities or making critical stops.
On offense, a powerful playmaker could be a dynamic running back, a game-changing wide receiver, or even a tight end who can cause mismatches with defenders. On defense, this could refer to a linebacker or pass rusher who disrupts plays and changes the momentum with game-altering tackles or sacks. These players create excitement and momentum, energizing their teammates and fans alike.
For the Panthers, adding such a player would provide an instant upgrade to their roster and help fill critical gaps, especially on offense. A player who can break tackles, stretch the field, or dominate in the red zone would be a welcome addition to a team still seeking consistency and explosive playmaking.
Who Are the Top 2025 NFL Draft Prospects Who Could Fit the Panthers’ Needs?
Now that we understand the Panthers’ needs and the role of a “powerful playmaker,” let’s look at some potential prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft who could fill these roles. These players are among the top-ranked prospects and could have an immediate impact on the Panthers’ roster:
1. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Ohio State)
One of the most exciting prospects in the 2025 draft is Marvin Harrison Jr., the wide receiver out of Ohio State. He is a true playmaker and would be an ideal fit for the Panthers’ offense. Harrison has everything you want in a wide receiver: elite speed, height, route-running ability, and the hands to make spectacular catches in critical moments. In 2024, Harrison is expected to continue to dominate at Ohio State, and his draft stock is expected to soar.
For the Panthers, Harrison would provide the true No. 1 wide receiver they’ve been searching for. His ability to make plays in the air, dominate against press coverage, and stretch the field would provide a valuable weapon for Bryce Young. Harrison’s elite ball skills, combined with his intelligence, would make him an immediate contributor and a future star in the NFL.
2. Brock Bowers (TE, Georgia)
Another potential “powerful playmaker” in the 2025 draft is Brock Bowers, the tight end from Georgia. Known for his combination of size, strength, and agility, Bowers is one of the most dynamic playmakers in college football. His ability to run routes like a wide receiver and block like a traditional tight end makes him a perfect mismatch for opposing defenses.
For the Panthers, Bowers could bring a new dimension to their offense. The tight end position has been underutilized in Carolina in recent years, and Bowers could provide both a safety blanket for Bryce Young and a deep threat down the field. His versatility in both the passing game and as a blocker would be crucial in helping Carolina’s offense become more balanced and explosive.
3. Will Anderson Jr. (EDGE, Alabama)
While the Panthers are primarily focused on offensive playmakers, Will Anderson Jr., the edge rusher from Alabama, is too talented to overlook. Anderson has the ability to change the course of a game with his relentless pass-rushing skills and his ability to create pressure on the quarterback. He is a disruptive force and would immediately strengthen the Panthers’ defense.
Adding someone like Anderson to their roster could take their defense to another level, allowing them to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks and force turnovers. Given the Panthers’ defensive needs, Anderson could be a foundational piece on the defensive side of the ball, providing a dynamic presence alongside players like Brian Burns.
4. Quinshon Judkins (RB, Ole Miss)
If the Panthers are looking to add a true playmaker to their backfield, Quinshon Judkins from Ole Miss could be a fantastic option. Judkins is a powerful, explosive running back with the ability to break tackles and take over games. His vision, speed, and physicality make him a dangerous weapon in both the rushing and receiving games.
For the Panthers, adding Judkins would give them a versatile playmaker who could take some of the pressure off Bryce Young. A strong running game is essential to the Panthers’ offensive balance, and Judkins’ ability to carry the load, pick up yards after contact, and catch passes out of the backfield would elevate the offense immediately.
How the Panthers Can Use Their Draft Position
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers will need to make strategic decisions to ensure they add the right pieces to their roster. With Bryce Young continuing to develop and a solid foundation on both sides of the ball, the Panthers have the opportunity to take a major step forward by drafting a powerful playmaker.
Whether they target a dynamic wide receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr., a versatile tight end like Brock Bowers, or a dominant edge rusher like Will Anderson Jr., the Panthers need to ensure they draft a player who can come in and contribute immediately. As they continue their rebuilding process, the 2025 draft could be the turning point for a franchise eager to return to prominence.
