The Carolina Panthers, all the way here in Week 14, sit at 7-6 and are just half a game behind the NFC South lead. So, for the first time in a long time at this point in the season, the team’s faithful are more focused on the possibility of playoffs than they are prospects in the draft.

But it’s never too early, especially during a bye week, to peek at what could be ahead in the spring.

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As we kick back on the Panthers’ break, let’s dive into a mini-mock draft for 2026!

First round (15th overall): Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Rookie Mitchell Evans has shown some early signs that he could potentially become a No. 1 tight end on this roster. But the offense is in need of a difference maker at the position—one who can win in both the passing game and running game.

Sadiq has it all. The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder possesses rare size and athleticism as weapon through the air and checks out as a reliable blocker.

Quarterback Bryce Young may have gotten his top weapon in wideout Tetairoa McMillan in the last draft. So adding a true security blanket at tight end—and an exciting playmaker, at that—could elevate the entire unit.

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Second round (59th overall): Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

Christian Rozeboom is ticketed for free agency and the Panthers need a long-term partner for Trevin Wallace.

Hill is an outstanding run defender with terrific downhill explosiveness that gets him to the backfield quickly. He’d be a key asset to whichever defensive system Carolina runs into 2026.

Third round (No. 79 overall): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

Although Tre’von Moehrig has proven to be a stellar free-agent addition, the backend of the defense still lacks a true ballhawk.

McNeil-Warren fits the profile of what the safety room could use if defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero returns. He has the ability to fit the run from any level while having quality coverage prowess in the secondary.

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Fourth round (115th overall): Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois

Second-year corner Chau Smith-Wade has been a sufficient contributor in the secondary, but there is always room for competition and depth at the nickel.

Scott is a terrific coverage defender with quality athleticism, ball skills and aggression in the run game.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers 2026 mini-mock draft: Bye week edition