Carolina Panthers NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

With all due respect to the backs in this article and even those selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft, Hardy was the most impressive runner in the country over the past two seasons. He collected an eye-popping 3,000 yards and 29 touchdowns on the ground over that time, while starring at both Louisiana Monroe and Missouri. Hardy led the Sun Belt in rushing as a true freshman in 2024 and then the mighty SEC this past season with a career-high 1,649 yards (on 6.4 yards per carry). He isn't the biggest back, but he has excellent vision and acceleration to leave defenders in the dust.

The 6-foot-4 Jones had 11 pass breakups and a pair of interceptions last season. He's got the size/speed combination NFL defenses covet.

Moore is a fluid athlete who stays in phase and uses his length to be consistently disruptive downfield. His smooth change of direction allows him to play both outside and in the slot, which will make his transition to the next level even smoother.

Like in 2024, it could be a while before the first defensive player is selected. Moore is a long, fluid prospect who is a high-quality press-man corner. He finished with five interceptions last season and allowed only 12 receptions. Moore's length, speed and recognition of passing concepts also allow him to clog windows in zone coverage. He needs to improve as a tackler and can be overly handsy, but Moore reminds me of Christian Gonzalez and can be a true shutdown corner in the NFL. With Mike Jackson entering a contract year, Moore could be a great pairing with Jaycee Horn in Carolina -- if he makes it this far.

If he'd declared for the 2026 draft, Washington likely would have been a top-25 pick and had a chance to be the first interior defensive lineman selected. Another year of development in Eugene could get him in the top 15.

A former two-sport athlete who once moonlighted on the hardwood for the Tigers, the 6-foot-7 Green has emerged as one of college football's most unique pass-catching talents. While he doesn't lack the toughness to play in-line, he does his best work as a receiver, aligning outside and in the slot while stressing defenses with his size and athleticism, particularly in the red zone.

Robinson has logged only 550 total reps to date, but he has checked every box, and his lofty recruiting status underscores his top-10 pedigree. He has allowed just 16 receptions on 38 targets so far at Georgia. He will face a gauntlet of receiving talent next season that will help define his final draft stock if he chooses to declare early.