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 may not have tight end at the very top of their needs list, but it is a position that still makes sense to address in the 2026 NFL Draft. Carolina has Ja’Tavion Sanders in place, but they don’t have any true standout talent behind Sanders to help propel the room for the future.
With a deep tight end class with well-rounded talent, the Panthers could look at the 2026 NFL Draft to address this. That is where Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright becomes interesting.
TWSN Key Facts
Player: Dae’Quan Wright
School: Ole Miss
Position: Tight End
Potential Team: Carolina Panthers
Event: 2026 NFL Draft
Why the Panthers Could Look at Another Tight End
Carolina does have other tight ends in the room, like Tommy Tremble and Mitchell Evans, but they don’t truly have another standout talent.
For a Panthers offense still trying to build around Bryce Young and give him as many reliable underneath and intermediate targets as possible, adding another tight end is not a luxury. It is a smart way to create flexibility.
It is a main reason why the Panthers have been discussed as a team that could potentially take Kenyon Sadiq in the first round. While this is a scenario, they also have other needs that should be addressed in the first round.
Why Dae’Quan Wright Fits Carolina
Wright is not viewed as one of the elite names in this class, which is actually part of the appeal for Carolina. That means the Panthers could potentially address other premium needs early and still come back for Wright later.
That is the kind of move fringe contending teams should look for. Carolina does not need to force a tight end pick at the top of the board, but finding value later on at a position that still deserves attention would make a lot of sense.
The appeal with Wright is straightforward. He would not need to walk in as the clear TE1. Wright could instead compete for snaps, develop within the offense, and carve out a role as a complementary piece.
Carolina could let Wright grow into the position while still benefiting from his skill set in certain packages. In an offense that should continue emphasizing easy throws, play-action, and versatile personnel groupings, a young tight end with upside like Wright can carry real value.
What stands out when it comes to Wright is the blend of athleticism and versatility he brings to the tight end position. At 6’4 and 255 pounds, he has the size to hold up physically while still offering real speed and build-up acceleration down the field.
He is a smooth mover for the position, flashes strong hands, adjusts well to throws away from his frame, and gives value as both a seam-stretcher and a catch-and-run threat. He has even shown willingness and potential as a blocker, which adds to his appeal as a developmental all-around tight end.
Coming off his best season in which he had a 70.9% reception rate for 635 yards and five touchdowns, he is entering the NFL at the right time, and for the Panthers, they can bank on his upside.
Final Thoughts
Again, while the Panthers already have Ja’Tavion Sanders, the room still feels like one where another young piece could be added. With Carolina continuing to build its offense and support Young, Wright would be an ideal target in the draft as a developmental tight end with upside.
Ole Miss TE Dae’Quan Wright has visits lined up with the #Panthers and other teams coming up, per sources.
Wright put together a strong season with 39 catches for 665 yards and 5 TDs and led the country in YAC, showing his ability to stretch the field and create mismatches down… pic.twitter.com/9aGSp72xz1
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 23, 2026
With the Panthers having a pre-draft visit scheduled with Dae’Quan Wright, it is clear the interest is already there, and could end up being another driving factor that leads them to draft Wright in April.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dae’Quan Wright?
Dae’Quan Wright is an Ole Miss tight end in the 2026 NFL Draft class.
Why would Dae’Quan Wright make sense for the Panthers?
He makes sense as a developmental option because Carolina can add another athletic tight end without forcing him into a TE1 role right away. Wright offers receiving upside, vertical ability, and enough size to develop into a more complete piece over time.
Have the Panthers shown interest in Dae’Quan Wright?
Yes. Recent draft-visit reporting indicates Wright has a pre-draft visit with the Panthers in April, which gives the fit some real traction beyond pure projection.
What are Wright’s biggest strengths?
His biggest strengths are his athleticism, ability to stretch the field, and natural receiving tools. Scouting reports highlight his speed for the position, catch radius, and ability to create problems for linebackers in space.
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