The 2026 NFL season just got started, but it’s never too early to begin thinking about the next draft.
The 2027 draft class is projected to be loaded, especially at the skill positions and in the trenches. As a result, teams like the Carolina Panthers could be in a perfect spot to add a franchise-altering talent.
After Week 1, you’re probably thinking the Panthers are a lock to take a defender in the first round in 2027. However, there’s another roster hole that’s need reinforcements for years now- tight end.
The team added veteran Darren Waller just before the preseason, but he’s not a long-term fix. We’ve seen absolutely nothing to think Tommy Tremble or Mitchell Evans could be a long-term fix, either, so it won’t be surprising if the team drafts one early.
In a recent mock, the Panthers get arguably the best tight end in the class.
Mock Draft has Panthers Select LSU TE Trey’Dez Green
Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Josh Edwards of CBS Sports recently published an updated 2027 mock draft. For the Panthers, Edwards has the Panthers selecting LSU tight end Trey’Dez Green with the No. 8 pick.
Green is in his third season with the Tigers and he’s already on pace to have his best season. The tight end has caught 10 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown through just two games in 2026.
“At 6-foot-7, Trey’Dez Green has a unique frame, but his ceiling is immensely higher than any Carolina has in the room currently,” Edwards said. “This season will determine whether or not Bryce Young is the player throwing him passes next season. If they’re picking at No. 8 overall, one would think the Panthers are likely exploring alternatives”
Edwards is right that Green has an “immensely higher” ceiling than any other tight end on the Panthers roster, but that’s not exactly saying much. Green is a former basketball player who has solid speed and can jump up and snag 50/50 balls.
It’ll be exciting to watch Green over the rest of the 2026 season. In 2025, the tight end caught 33 passes for 433 yards and seven touchdowns, but as mentioned, he’s shown more receiver upside than ever this season.
In Carolina, Green wouldn’t have to worry about splitting snaps and could immediately be a top target for Bryce Young (or whoever the quarterback is) in 2027.
