Not too long ago, the Carolina Panthers—with this year’s ninth overall pick—seemed to be right in a sweet spot for quarterback prospect Anthony Richardson. But we all know the NFL draft, especially when we’re this early in the process, can throw perception for a loop.
Given the unmatched upside amongst his peers, the University of Florida standout has recently gained some steam. And if the Panthers want to get their hands on him, they may ultimately have to move to do so.
So, before he likely wows at this week’s combine, here is our latest mock draft—the trade up for Richardson edition.
Pick No. 3 (First Round): Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Panthers receive: No. 3 overall pick
Arizona Cardinals receive: 2023 first-round pick (No. 9), 2023 third-round pick (No. 93), 2023 fifth-round pick (No. 147), 2024 first-round pick
Yeah, that is a bit expensive to jump up just five spots—but you must take the chance to secure your future. So with Bryce Young and CJ Stroud both likely off the board by now, the Panthers risk it on the sky-high potential of Richardson.
He has a cannon of an arm, elite athleticism and has shown excellent playmaking ability this year. While he will need some development, the 6-foot-4, 231-pounder is gifted enough to start right away for an offense that’s built around him.
Pick No. 39 (Second round): Derick Hall, DE, Auburn
The Panthers need some more help in getting to the quarterback as well as filling out their new 3-4 defense. Hall can start opposite of Pro Bowler Brian Burns in a rotation at outside linebacker, and could slot in at defensive end in certain packages with some added weight.
Hall is a strong run defender with an excellent pass-rushing ceiling given his excellent athleticism, size and power. He could be the missing piece of the Panthers’ front.
Pick No. 61 (Second round): Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Carolina doesn’t have to look far to get their next slot receiver in Downs. He was highly productive for the Tar Heels, having reeled in 19 touchdowns and 2,364 yards over the last two seasons.
He is a scrappy player and an explosive athlete with incredible run-after-the-catch ability. He could start right away alongside DJ Moore and Terrace Marshall Jr.
Pick No. 114 (Fourth round): Zacch Pickens, DL, South Carolina
There needs to be more big bodies along this defensive line and another local product will fill that need. Pickens has untapped potential and is an excellent athlete who could become something far more than his original draft estimate.
Pick No. 132 (Fourth round): Kenny McIntosh, RB, Georgia
Even if D’Onta Foreman sticks around, McIntosh could help return an added dimension to Carolina’s backfield. The explosive dual-threat back, who ran for 829 yards and 10 scores in 2022, also caught 43 passes for 505 yards.
