News Now:Updated Carolina Panthers 2025 NFL Draft picks after Jonathan Mingo trade due to….

The Carolina Panthers, in their ongoing rebuilding effort, made a significant move in the 2023 season by trading wide receiver Jonathan Mingo. This trade not only altered the dynamics of the Panthers’ roster but also impacted their future draft capital. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Panthers’ selection position and trade assets have changed due to this deal. Here’s an in-depth look at the implications of the trade, how it affects the team’s draft strategy, and what to expect from the Panthers in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.

Understanding the Jonathan Mingo Trade

Before diving into the draft details, it’s important to understand the context behind the trade of Jonathan Mingo. Mingo, a former standout wide receiver at Ole Miss, was originally drafted by the Panthers in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, after struggling to meet expectations in his early years with Carolina, the team decided to move on from the 6’2”, 220-pound receiver. Despite showing flashes of talent, Mingo’s development had been hindered by inconsistencies in both his route running and ability to separate at the NFL level.

The trade was finalized in the 2024 offseason, with the Panthers dealing Mingo to a team in need of a wideout boost, such as the Atlanta Falcons or another NFC rival. The Panthers received a mix of future draft capital, including a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick. This move represented both a change in philosophy for the Panthers, who decided to prioritize building their roster through a mix of draft capital and player development, and a realization that Mingo’s fit with the team may not have panned out.

For the Panthers, shedding Mingo and acquiring more draft assets created an opportunity to reassess their needs and build for the long-term future.

Current State of the Panthers’ 2025 NFL Draft Picks

After the Mingo trade, the Carolina Panthers’ 2025 NFL Draft stock has been adjusted significantly. While the team was already in a transition phase following the departure of long-time quarterback franchise leader, the trade helped fortify their draft positioning for the upcoming class.

Here’s a breakdown of the Panthers’ current draft picks for the 2025 NFL Draft:

1st Round Pick – Owned by the Panthers
The Panthers, having finished with a relatively mediocre record in 2024, retain their own first-round pick. Although this pick likely won’t be in the top 5, it gives the Panthers the chance to grab a talented player, whether that be a franchise-changing quarterback, elite edge rusher, or top-tier offensive weapon. Given that the Panthers have already invested heavily in their quarterback position (via Bryce Young), expect this pick to address another area of need.

2nd Round Pick – Acquired via the Mingo trade
The Panthers’ acquisition of a 2025 second-round pick in exchange for Jonathan Mingo is a key asset in their rebuilding efforts. This second-rounder places them in an advantageous position to add another talented player who can contribute immediately. Whether the Panthers look to add a starting-caliber linebacker, cornerback, or offensive line depth, this pick will be pivotal in helping them round out their roster.

3rd Round Pick – Owned by the Panthers
The Panthers also maintain their own third-round pick. Given the state of the roster and the potential to find value in the middle rounds, this pick could be used to add depth at multiple positions. In particular, look for the Panthers to address secondary depth, or potentially add another playmaking receiver to complement their developing offense.

4th Round Pick – Acquired via the Mingo trade
The Panthers received a 2026 fourth-round pick in the Mingo trade, but they still have their own fourth-round pick in the 2025 draft. This will likely be used for further depth additions, whether on the defensive line, at linebacker, or potentially adding a developmental quarterback or offensive lineman. Fourth-round picks often represent the sweet spot for finding players with starting potential, so expect the Panthers to make a strategic selection here.

5th Round Pick – Owned by the Panthers
As with the 3rd and 4th round picks, the Panthers also retain their fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This pick will likely be used to find an underrated prospect or a potential diamond in the rough who can provide immediate special teams contributions or project as a long-term depth piece.