The Carolina Panthers are embracing a strategic shift as they enter a pivotal chapter in their rebuilding process. Coming off a 5-win campaign in 2024 under first-year head coach Dave Canales, the team appears committed to reshaping the roster through savvy draft-day maneuvers—and that could include trading down in the first round, even if it means taking a “discount.”
According to NFL insider Albert Breer, the Panthers are actively exploring the idea of moving down from their current No. 8 spot in the 2025 NFL Draft. But the surprising part? They’re reportedly willing to accept less-than-ideal compensation in return. The motivation behind the move is clear: stockpiling draft capital to fuel a broader rebuild and better position themselves for both this year and the future.
“My understanding is they’re willing to take a discount to move down in an effort to try to build up their war chest of picks,” Breer reported. “It’s interesting, too, because Carolina isn’t hurting for volume with two fourths and three fifths.”
While the Panthers already hold nine picks in total—including two fourth-rounders and three fifth-rounders—they’re particularly eyeing the depth-rich Day 2 of the draft. This year’s class is considered especially strong in the second and third rounds, which adds further weight to Carolina’s desire to accumulate more picks in that range.
There’s also a broader strategy at play. Breer notes that Carolina isn’t just looking to build in 2025—they’re also eyeing draft capital in 2026. With experts suggesting there may not be a massive talent gap between the 8th and 18th picks this year, trading down could allow Carolina to gain long-term value without a steep drop in player quality.
In essence, the Panthers are playing the long game. By trading down—even at a bargain—they’re betting on depth, development, and future flexibility. It’s a calculated risk, but one that could set the foundation for sustainable success.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Carolina’s front office. Will they find a trade partner willing to dance? And more importantly, will this aggressive approach yield the pieces they need to truly turn the corner?