1. Bryce Young (Starter)
- The Panthers selected Bryce Young with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. After trading up to secure the top pick, the expectation is that Young will be the immediate starter. As a highly decorated quarterback from Alabama, Young is seen as a potential franchise player. His blend of poise, accuracy, and football IQ will be key in leading the Panthers’ offense, especially as they work to build around him in his rookie season.
2. Andy Dalton (Backup)
- Veteran Andy Dalton is brought in to be the backup quarterback and provide mentorship to the rookie Young. Dalton, a former starter in Cincinnati, has vast experience and will offer stability in the event Young is unavailable or needs time to adjust to the NFL’s speed. His familiarity with offensive systems and leadership in the locker room will be valuable assets for this young team.
3. Matt Corral (Practice Squad)
- While Corral was drafted as a potential future starter in 2022, his development has taken a backseat to the team’s decision to pursue Young. Corral will likely land on the practice squad unless there is a major injury or unforeseen event that could elevate his standing. The Panthers are still high on his potential, so keeping him in the system is important.
Running Backs (4)
1. Miles Sanders (Starter)
- Miles Sanders was signed in free agency to provide the Panthers with a dynamic, versatile running back. Coming from Philadelphia, where he was part of a successful backfield committee, Sanders brings both power and speed to the table. He is expected to take the lead in the rushing attack, offering a strong presence between the tackles while also being a reliable receiving option out of the backfield.
2. Chuba Hubbard (Backup)
- Chuba Hubbard enters his third season with the Panthers and will serve as the backup to Sanders. Hubbard has shown flashes of potential but has struggled to maintain consistency as the feature back. However, his speed and explosiveness make him a valuable asset in certain situations, particularly on outside runs and change-of-pace plays.
3. Raheem Blackshear (Depth)
- Blackshear is expected to make the roster as a depth piece. He’s a versatile running back who can contribute on special teams as well. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield could make him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations and could allow him to secure a role as a third-down back.
4. Spencer Brown (Practice Squad)
- Spencer Brown was drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft as a late-round pick and will likely land on the practice squad, although the Panthers see him as a future contributor. His physicality and burst could help him get a spot on the roster down the line, especially if there’s a need for additional depth or injury.
Wide Receivers (6)
1. DJ Moore (WR1)
- DJ Moore remains the top wide receiver for the Panthers. With the team needing a reliable playmaker on the outside, Moore is poised to continue as the No. 1 target for Bryce Young. His ability to stretch the field and create separation after the catch makes him an essential weapon in this offense. Moore is a proven talent who can elevate the passing game.
2. Adam Thielen (WR2)
- After joining the Panthers as a free agent, veteran Adam Thielen brings invaluable experience and leadership to the receiving corps. Though he may be in the later stages of his career, Thielen is still a reliable possession receiver with excellent route-running skills. He’ll complement Moore as a key part of the offense, especially in the red zone.
3. Jonathan Mingo (WR3)
- Jonathan Mingo was one of the Panthers’ key draft picks in the 2025 Draft. His blend of size, athleticism, and catching ability makes him a perfect fit in the slot or as a big-bodied receiver on the outside. Mingo is expected to develop into a reliable target for Bryce Young, offering him a young, physical presence to grow alongside in his rookie year.
4. Terrace Marshall Jr. (WR4)
- Marshall is entering his third season and will look to step up as a potential breakout candidate. Despite struggling with consistency in his first two years, Marshall has the physical traits to be a dangerous weapon in the passing game. His development will be critical for the Panthers as they look to expand their receiving options.
5. Laviska Shenault Jr. (WR5)
- Shenault’s role in the offense could be multifaceted, allowing him to contribute in various ways, whether it’s as a receiver or in gadget plays. He’s a strong, physical player who can excel in short-yardage situations and on jet sweeps. Shenault’s versatility and ability to make plays after the catch make him a valuable asset.
6. Shi Smith (WR6)
- Shi Smith rounds out the Panthers’ wide receiver depth chart. He has the speed and agility to make an impact in special teams and as a depth option on offense. Smith is likely to be a backup who could see increased snaps if any of the top receivers are unavailable.
Tight Ends (3)
1. Hayden Hurst (Starter)
- Hayden Hurst is expected to be the primary tight end in 2025. His ability to run routes and contribute as both a blocker and a pass-catcher makes him an excellent fit for this offense. Hurst will be one of Bryce Young’s most reliable short-to-intermediate targets, providing a solid safety valve over the middle of the field.
2. Tommy Tremble (TE2)
- Tremble, entering his third season, will continue to serve as a strong blocking tight end while also being a potential threat in the passing game. His development as a route runner will determine whether he can take on a larger role, but his blocking will be crucial, particularly in run-heavy formations.
3. Ian Thomas (TE3)
- Ian Thomas will round out the tight end group. He’s shown flashes of potential but has yet to truly break through. His skill set as a blocker and occasional receiving target makes him a useful depth piece. Thomas could provide solid snaps in two-tight-end sets or serve as an emergency option if injuries strike.
Offensive Line (9)
1. Ikem Ekwonu (LT)
- Ekwonu enters his third season as the starting left tackle. The Panthers invested heavily in him as the cornerstone of their offensive line, and his powerful presence will protect Bryce Young’s blindside. His development in both pass protection and run blocking is critical for the team’s success.
2. Brady Christensen (LG)
- Christensen, a former third-round pick, will continue to solidify his role as the starting left guard. His ability to play both guard spots gives the Panthers versatility on the line. He’s a solid run blocker who will look to improve his pass protection in 2025.
3. Bradley Bozeman (C)
- Bozeman is the anchor of the Panthers’ offensive line at center. His leadership and physicality in both the run and pass game make him a valuable piece for Bryce Young’s development. Bozeman is one of the most consistent linemen, known for his ability to get to the second level in the run game and his reliability in pass protection.
4. Austin Corbett (RG)
- Corbett, the starting right guard, is a former Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams. His experience and strong play in the running game will be crucial to the Panthers’ success. Corbett’s consistency and ability to protect the interior of the line make him a key component.
5. Taylor Moton (RT)
- Moton remains the starting right tackle, and one of the most reliable players on the Panthers’ offensive line. His ability to neutralize pass-rushers from the edge will be crucial in protecting Young and maintaining a clean pocket. He’s also a strong presence in the run game.
6. Brady Latham (OL Depth)
- Latham is a young interior lineman who will provide depth behind the starters. He’s versatile and could be called on to rotate in during injury or as part of a rotation.
7. Chandler Zavala (OL Depth)
- Zavala is a rookie drafted in 2025 who will contribute as a versatile backup along the interior. His ability to step in at multiple positions along the offensive line will give the Panthers important depth.
8. Cade Mays (OL Depth)
- Mays provides depth at both guard positions and is capable of stepping in if injuries arise. He’s a strong and durable player who can provide key snaps when needed.
9. Tyre Phillips (OL Depth)
- Phillips rounds out the offensive line as a backup tackle. He’s still developing but has the potential to be a solid contributor if the Panthers need to adjust their line during the season
