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One Panthers Rookie is Shining Brighter Than the Rest, and It's Not Who You Expect
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- One Panthers Rookie is Shining Brighter Than the Rest, and It's Not Who You Expect
At the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft , it seemed like the Carolina Panthers had landed a very nice draft class.
That could still end up being the case, but it's fair to say, to this point, the class as a whole has been disappointing. Third-round rookie Chris Brazzell was expected to play a large role, but he suffered a season-ending injury in camp . Other than that, though, there's nothing to blame but underperformance.
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The season is just about at the halfway point, so we've seen a big enough sample size. Just because the class has fallen short of expectations, that doesn't mean every rookie has been disappointing.
In fact, one draft pick is starting to get some deserved recognition.
Zakee Wheatley is Overperforming Draft Slot
Aug 4, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers safety Zakee Wheatley (38) on the way to the practice field at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
ESPN's NFL analysts recently published a piece all about the 2026 rookies . The analysts picked the top 10 rookies of the season so far and also gave out some superlatives.
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No Panthers made the top 10, but Zakee Wheatley did receive votes. The rookie fifth-round pick was also chosen as the late-round pick who has been the biggest overperformer to this point.
"The fifth-round pick has yet to record an interception in the NFL, but his impact has been felt in a Panthers secondary that has been decimated by injuries," Jordan Reid said of Wheatley. "He has three pass breakups, showcasing excellent range to make a play on the ball in pass coverage."
As Reid mentioned, Wheatley has become a crucial piece as the Panthers have dealt with a ton of injuries this season. Both starting corners , Mike Jackson and Jaycee Horn, are on injured reserve, and safety Nick Scott has missed time as well.
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So far, Wheatley has 19 total tackles, three pass breakups, and one forced fumble. Pro Football Focus gives Wheatley an elite 89.3 overall grade, which ranks third out of 94 qualified safeties.
If Wheatley continues performing like this, it won't be surprising to see the rookie take over as a full-time starter going forward.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
