TWSN writer and editor currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and originally from Upstate New York. Covering the NFL, NFL Draft, NBA, MLB, and Combat Sports
The Carolina Panthers are coming off a strong 2025 NFL season in which they ended up winning the NFC South with an 8-9 record. For the Panthers to continue on their upward trajectory, they need to make sure they actively try to advance the team while they are in a contending window.
During the NFL League Meetings, Panthers’ head coach Dave Canales went on to state the positions that are in play for the Panthers at 19th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
TWSN Key Facts
Team: Carolina Panthers
Head Coach: Dave Canales
Pick: 19th Overall
Possible targets: Wide receiver, tight end, safety
Event: 2026 NFL Draft
What Positions the Carolina Panthers Could Target in the 2026 NFL Draft
Canales went on to list three positions that were in play for the Panthers at 19th overall in the first round. Those positions were wide receiver, tight end, and safety. While the Panthers could still go in other directions, bringing up these three positions in particular gives a bit more direction on where Carolina is leaning in April.
Panthers HC Canales mentions WR, TE, S among others as possible options at pick No. 19.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) March 30, 2026
Why Wide Receiver Makes Sense
Wide receiver stands out as one of the most logical options for Carolina. Every young quarterback benefits from having more weapons, and adding another dynamic pass-catcher to pair with Tetairoa McMillan would raise the ceiling of the offense. A first-round receiver could give Carolina more explosiveness, more separation ability, and another player that defenses have to account for on every snap.
That type of addition would fit where the Panthers are as a team. If they want to keep Bryce Young‘s development on track and avoid putting too much pressure on other receivers, finding another high-end receiving threat at 19 would be a smart move.
The top-tier wide receivers that could fall to this range for Carolina are Jordyn Tyson or Makai Lemon, while they are already in the range to draft Omar Cooper Jr as well.
Tight End Could Be a Sneaky First-Round Play
The tight end position has become more valuable every year because of how much the best tight ends can change an offense. A player who can stretch the field, win in the middle, and create mismatches against linebackers and safeties can become a quarterback’s best friend quickly.
For Carolina, a versatile tight end can help in the pass game while also bringing value as a blocker, would make the offense more versatile and less predictable.
The target at 19th overall here for the Panthers would be Kenyon Sadiq. With his athleticism and receiving ability, he would help advance Carolina’s offense and be a go-to target for Young for the future.
Safety Would Address the Defense
Safety may not always be the flashy choice, but it could be one of the most important ones for Carolina. Taking a safety at 19th overall could help solidify the back end of the defense for years to come.
For a Panthers team still trying to build consistency on both sides of the ball, adding a reliable and athletic defensive back could be just as valuable as adding another offensive weapon.
The one potential option that makes sense here for the Panthers is Dillon Thieneman. If Caleb Downs falls here, it would be an unforeseen slide, but Thieneman can provide the same impact as Downs, if not more, and would be right around this range.
What This Means for Carolina
The biggest takeaway from Canales’ comments is that Carolina appears to be approaching the draft with flexibility.
For the Panthers, that could mean waiting to see whether a top receiver slips, whether a tight end they love remains available, or whether a highly-rated safety on their board becomes too good to pass up. No matter which direction they go, Canales has made it clear the franchise is looking for a player who can make an impact quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What positions did Dave Canales mention for the Panthers at No. 19?
Canales mentioned wide receiver, tight end, safety, and others as possible options for Carolina’s first-round pick.
What pick do the Panthers have in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Panthers hold the No. 19 overall pick.
Why would Carolina draft a wide receiver?
Adding a receiver would give the Panthers another offensive weapon and help raise the ceiling of the passing game.
Why could tight end be in play for the Panthers?
A tight end could give Carolina a versatile offensive piece who helps both as a pass-catcher and blocker.
Would safety be a reach at No. 19?
Not if Carolina views the player as a true difference-maker. Safety can be a major impact position in today’s NFL.
More Carolina Panthers Content From TWSN:
NFL Free Agency Fit Breakdown: Carolina Panthers and Darren Waller
The Carolina Panthers Will Win the NFC South Next Season
Carolina Panthers Post-Free Agency 4-Round Mock Draft
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TWSN writer and editor currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and originally from Upstate New York. Covering the NFL, NFL Draft, NBA, MLB, and Combat Sports