With the No. 8 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers are in prime position to bolster their roster, and all signs indicate that they are shifting their focus toward defense. After a challenging 2024 season that saw them ranked dead last in both total and scoring defense, Carolina has already made strategic moves in free agency, securing safety Tre’von Moehrig along with defensive linemen Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown. But the work is far from done.
According to Joe Person of The Athletic, the Panthers have shown “real interest” in Georgia’s standout pass rusher, Mykel Williams. Widely regarded as one of the most promising edge rushers in this draft class, Williams possesses the raw power, athleticism, and versatility needed to make an immediate impact at the NFL level. While he isn’t expected to be the first pass rusher off the board—Abdul Carter is projected to go earlier—Williams could still be one of the top defensive prospects available when the Panthers are on the clock.
The Panthers’ growing interest in Williams makes perfect sense given their current defensive needs. With a second-year quarterback in Bryce Young showing significant flashes of potential last season, Carolina’s offensive unit is starting to find its rhythm. However, if they hope to compete at a higher level, addressing their pass rush remains a top priority. Williams, with his explosive first step and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks, would be a valuable addition to a defense that struggled to apply pressure last season.
Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda also reports that Williams is firmly on Carolina’s radar as a legitimate option at No. 8. While the Panthers could consider other defensive prospects depending on how the draft unfolds, Williams’ name continues to surface as a potential game-changing selection. If Carolina pulls the trigger, they could land a dynamic edge rusher capable of transforming their front seven and giving their struggling defense the boost it desperately needs.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Panthers’ decision. Will they secure Williams and add a dominant pass-rushing presence to their defensive lineup? Or will they pivot toward another position of need? Either way, Carolina’s aggressive approach to rebuilding their defense suggests they won’t hesitate to make a bold move on draft night.