Panthers double down at WR in CBS' new 2026 mock draft

Ever since Steve Smith's unceremonious exit following the 2013 season, the Carolina Panthers have found themselves lagging behind at wide receiver. While there have been some small exceptions in the interim—like DJ Moore—more often than not, Carolina has been on the bottom end of the league when it comes to talent at this critical position. Last year, the Panthers finally got some relief in the form of first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan—who totaled 1,014 receiving yards and seven touchdowns en route to the 2025 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Now, Carolina has to continue building up the rest of the receiver group around him—and a new three-round mock draft from Mike Renner at CBS Sports has them doubling down at this spot. First, Renner has the Panthers picking Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion with the 19th overall selection: The Panthers go wide receiver in the first round for a third straight year. Concepcion brings juice and separation ability that no one else on the roster can match.

Concepcion (six-foot, 196 pounds) is a Charlotte native who started his college career at NC State , then transferred to Texas A&M for the 2025 campaign. All together, he totaled 185 receptions, 2,218 yards and 25 touchdowns over the last three seasons. He also put in great work as a punt returner last year, scoring twice.

In Round 2, Renner has the Panthers taking Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter at No. 51 overall. Then, he went right back to the wide receiver well in Round 3—going with Tennessee standout Chris Brazzell II at the 83rd overall pick.