Panthers mock draft roundup 9.0: Tracking the latest 2026 projections

That athleticism shows up on tape and was on full display at the combine, where he ran a 4.39-second 40 (an all-time record for tight ends) and posted a 43-inch vertical and 11-foot-1 broad jump—both in the 97th percentile among TEs over the past three years.

The Athletic

Pick: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

Author: Dane Brugler

Take: As Carolina continues to build its defense, Thieneman has the versatility that will speak to general manager Dan Morgan and the Panthers coaches. He would upgrade both the coverage and run defense from day one.

NFL Media

Pick: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Author: Mike Band

Take: Carolina can justify going in a few different directions here, especially along the offensive line, but Sadiq feels like the most optimal non-OT path to keep building around Bryce Young. Dave Canales has already identified tight end as a potential impact spot at No. 19, and the Panthers use enough multi-TE looks to make the value work. With 4.39 speed at 241 pounds, Sadiq gives Young another mismatch piece who can stretch the seams and grow into a featured part of the offense.

CBS Sports

Pick: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Author: Pete Prisco

Take: A playmaking tight end for Bryce Young would be a nice addition to the offense. They could also look at a receiver in this spot. Helping the offense is a must.

Establish The Run

Pick: Monroe Freeling, OL, Georgia

Author: Evan Silva

Take: LT Ikem Ekwonu tore his patellar tendon in Carolina’s playoff loss to the Rams. He likely won’t play a snap in 2026 and isn’t under contract for 2027. At 6-foot-8, 315, with nearly 35-inch arms, Freeling is built like an NFL blindside tackle and registered a 99th-percentile Relative Athletic Score.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers mock draft roundup 9.0: Tracking the latest 2026 projections