NFL Draft: Panthers, 49ers, Packers Make Key Selections Today

The Carolina Panthers surprised some by selecting Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, addressing offensive needs for quarterback Bryce Young despite ongoing concerns about their defense. Panthers general manager Dan Morgan emphasized that improving the defense remains a priority, with several defensive prospects still on their board and eight more picks remaining to address those needs. The team holds a total of nine picks, including additional selections in the second, third, fourth, fifth, and seventh rounds, allowing flexibility to target key positions such as safety and pass rusher. McMillan's early selection diverges from expectations that the Panthers would focus on bolstering the league’s worst defense in the first round, but Morgan's comments suggest a balanced approach is planned for the remainder of the draft.