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Panthers Predicted to Select Heir Apparent to Ikem Ekwonu in 2027 NFL Draft
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- Panthers Predicted to Select Heir Apparent to Ikem Ekwonu in 2027 NFL Draft
The Carolina Panthers ' offensive line looks much different right now than it did a year ago.
There's no more Cade Mays at center, and both starting tackles are currently out. As a result, the team is slated to start veteran Rasheed Walker at left tackle and rookie Monroe Freeling at right tackle in 2026.
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The Panthers just used a first-round pick on Freeling, but most expect the rookie to stick on the right side in the NFL. Ikem Ekwonu has been fine on the left side, but he's never been elite. Because of that, it's not crazy to think the Panthers could be in the market for a tackle again in the 2027 NFL Draft .
A recent mock draft has the Panthers going this route, selecting one of the top blockers in the 2027 class.
Panthers Predicted to Draft Trevor Goosby
Ethan Woodie of NFL Trade Rumors recently published his early 2027 mock draft .
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In this mock, the Panthers use the No. 10 pick on Texas offensive tackle Trevor Goosby . Goosby is widely thought of as one of the top tackles for 2027, so if the Panthers really are picking this high, it would be tempting.
"Another young player with nearly unlimited upside, Goosby got some first-round buzz for this past class but ultimately chose to return to school. A non-contact knee injury in fall camp was a scary sight, but it sounds like he'll be good to go for the season," Woodie explained. "The tape he put out last year makes him the best tackle prospect on my board going into the year, and it's not particularly close. His fluidity and coordinated hands and feet are impressive for such an inexperienced player."
As Woodie mentioned, Goosby legitimately could have been a first-round pick in 2026, so with another elite season, the tackle could easily cement himself as the top 2027 prospect.
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If the Panthers actually have a top 10 pick, they'll probably have bigger needs than tackle. The thing is, Goosby seems like the closest thing to a generational prospect, and he may be too good to pass up on.
If Goosby is added to the fold, the team would have an enviable tackle duo. Ekwonu could slide inside and play guard if Rob Hunt or Damien Lewis falter, or he could become trade bait.
Of course, ending with the No. 10 pick in the draft almost guarantees the team will be in the market for a new quarterback. It won't matter how good the offensive line is if Bryce Young fails to take a step forward.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
