The Carolina Panthers have made significant strides in reshaping their roster after a defensive-heavy draft that many analysts have praised with top marks. New head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan are prioritizing a cultural shift for the team. Bryce Young, the former first overall pick, is poised for a breakout after a rocky rookie season that saw him benched. His late-season resurgence, highlighted by a five-touchdown game against the Atlanta Falcons, signals a potential turnaround.

In the draft, the Panthers selected impactful players including wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who brings size and athleticism to the receiving corps, and edge rushers Nic Scourton and Prince Umanmielen to bolster a struggling defense. With the addition of running back Trevor Etienne and safety Lathan Ransom, the team is filling key gaps and creating depth across the roster. The Panthers aim to become a competitive force in the NFL.

The Chicago Bears have successfully completed a strategic trade with the Carolina Panthers, initially executed in 2023, which allowed them to capitalize on their No. 1 overall draft pick. This trade netted the Bears a wealth of assets, including wide receiver DJ Moore and multiple draft picks across three years. Notably, they utilized these picks to strengthen their roster, selecting impactful players like quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Luther Burden.

Bears GM Ryan Poles expressed satisfaction with the trade's outcome, emphasizing its long-term benefits. While the Panthers have seemingly secured their franchise quarterback in Bryce Young, the Bears have focused on building a well-rounded team with depth and potential, positioning themselves as a competitive force in the NFC.

In 2023, the Carolina Panthers boldly selected Bryce Young with the first overall pick, but the season turned into a disappointment with a 2-15 finish. Criticism mounted as comparisons to past draft busts arose, particularly after C.J. Stroud's immediate success with the Texans. Young's initial struggles were exacerbated by a porous offensive line that allowed 62 sacks. Midway through the season, after throwing multiple interceptions and facing trade rumors, Young showed signs of improvement. By Week 8, he returned as the starter and led the Panthers to four wins, showcasing a more confident and composed playing style against formidable teams.

As Young enters his third year, expectations are high, but the Panthers have fortified their roster with notable additions, including Hunter Renfrow and promising rookies. With improved protection and enhanced offensive options, Young is finally positioned for success. The recurring question remains: can he transform potential into performance and fulfill the franchise's lofty hopes?

Steve Smith Sr., a legendary figure for the Carolina Panthers, expressed skepticism towards the team's draft pick of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at No. 8 overall. On his podcast, he noted that while addressing a need on offense, the team missed a chance to bolster a defense that struggled significantly last season. Smith believed the franchise should have prioritized impactful defensive players, particularly highlighting the historically weak performance that allowed a record 534 points last year. Furthermore, he argued that McMillan adds to a roster already filled with possession receivers, suggesting alternatives that could have better complemented quarterback Bryce Young.

The Carolina Panthers have made significant roster changes following the 2025 NFL draft, aiming to blend experience with youthful talent. Key positions were solidified, including the quarterback spot with Bryce Young and Andy Dalton, complemented by rookie Jack Plummer. The running back group saw the addition of Trevor Etienne and Rico Dowdle, while the receiver corps, featuring veterans like Adam Thielen and emerging talents such as Hunter Renfrow, adds depth. The defense boasts improved depth with Derrick Brown leading a revamped line, and Jadeveon Clowney joining a promising linebacker unit. The early predictions suggest a blend of established players and fresh faces making up the final roster.