Panthers mock draft roundup 7.0: Tracking the latest 2026 projections

The Carolina Panthers might've struck the biggest bargain of the offseason at one of the sport's most premium positions. In a shocking deal, the team was able to reel in former Green Bay Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker—the open market's very top blindside protector—on a one-year $4 million pact. Walker, with Ikem Ekwonu recovering from a torn patellar tendon, is likely to begin the season in the starting lineup.

But that deal hasn't prevented draft experts from connecting Carolina to a few hog mollies. Here is our latest mock draft roundup for the Panthers . .

. USA Today Pick: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah Author : Jacob Camenker Take : Carolina might not have a major present-day need along the offensive line, but one could quickly arise. The team's normal starting left tackle, Ikem Ekwonu, may miss the 2026 NFL season because of a torn patellar tendon – a difficult injury from which to recover – while free agent signing Rasheed Walker only signed a one-year deal to help replace him.

Adding Fano would provide the Panthers with a longer-term option at the position in case neither Ekwonu or Walker returns to the team in 2027. Fano also has the athleticism and versatility needed to play along the interior offensive line, so Carolina can certainly find a spot to play the fluid mover. ESPN Pick: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah Author : Jordan Reid Take : Fano can play all five spots up front, and he could even fill in at center as a rookie prior to moving to another spot after his first season.