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8 NFL Draft Prospects Panthers Fans Should Watch as Bowl Season Kicks Off

As the college football postseason begins, Carolina Panthers fans may find themselves looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, even as head coach Dave Canales and his staff remain focused on closing out the season. While the Panthers sit at 4-11 and are projected to hold the No. 7 pick, the final draft position could shift depending on the outcome of the last two games.

With significant needs on both sides of the ball — particularly a pass rusher and receiving weapons to aid quarterback Bryce Young — here are eight college prospects worth keeping an eye on during bowl season.

1. Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State)

Carter, the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, stands at 6-foot-3 and 252 pounds. With 63 tackles and 11 sacks this season, he has showcased his ability as both a pass rusher and a run stopper. Carter is a leading candidate for Carolina’s first-round pick. He’ll next feature in the College Football Playoff as Penn State faces Boise State on Tuesday.

2. Mykel Williams (EDGE, Georgia)

The 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive standout has drawn comparisons to top pass rushers, displaying strong skills against both the run and pass. With 20 tackles, five sacks, and two forced fumbles this season, Williams could be an excellent fit for Carolina’s defensive front. Georgia will play Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff on Wednesday.

3. Shemar Stewart (DE, Texas A&M)

At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Stewart brings speed and versatility to the defensive line. His draft stock ranges widely, but his potential as a disruptor in the trenches makes him a compelling option for the Panthers. Stewart will feature in the Las Vegas Bowl as Texas A&M faces Southern California on Friday.

4. Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)

The 6-foot-2, 202-pound cornerback is the No. 2 prospect at his position behind Travis Hunter of Colorado. Johnson has two interceptions this season and fits the physical profile Carolina has sought in defensive backs. Michigan plays Alabama on Tuesday in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

5. Evan Stewart (WR, Oregon)

Stewart, a 6-foot, 175-pound wide receiver, has tallied 48 catches for 613 yards and five touchdowns this season. Known for his speed, he is projected as a Day 2 draft pick. The Panthers could target Stewart if they don’t address the receiver position in free agency. Oregon takes on Ohio State in the Rose Bowl on Wednesday.

6. Elic Ayomanor (WR, Stanford)

Ayomanor is a 6-foot-2, 210-pound receiver with a knack for big plays and strong separation skills. With over 1,800 receiving yards across the past two seasons, he is a second- or third-round prospect. Though Stanford isn’t bowl eligible, Ayomanor’s highlight-reel plays have drawn attention.

7. Shemar Turner (DL, Texas A&M)

Turner, a 6-foot-4, 300-pound lineman, offers versatility and power. With 36 tackles and two sacks this season, he could be a second-round option for Carolina. He’ll also feature in the Las Vegas Bowl against Southern California.

8. Jack Sawyer (EDGE, Ohio State)

Sawyer is a 6-foot-4, 265-pound pass rusher with 46 tackles and an interception this year. If the Panthers opt not to select an EDGE rusher in the first round, Sawyer could be a mid-second-round steal. Ohio State faces Oregon in the Rose Bowl on Wednesday.

Looking Ahead

While the Panthers’ draft needs may shift based on their free-agent moves, these prospects could play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future. General Manager Dan Morgan and the scouting department will undoubtedly have their eyes on these bowl games as they prepare for the 2025 draft.