Should the Panthers Break Tradition and Draft a Linebacker First?
The Carolina Panthers face an intriguing decision as they approach the 2026 NFL Draft. Historically, the team has avoided using a first-round pick on an inside linebacker for over a decade. The last linebacker selected in the first round was Shaq Thompson in 2015, who ranks among the franchise’s all-time tackle leaders.
Breaking Tradition: The Case for Drafting a Linebacker
General manager Dan Morgan has hinted at the potential need for improvement in the linebacker position. While he acknowledges the desire to upgrade, historical reluctance remains evident. Previous picks have focused on skill positions rather than linebackers, with the team selecting wide receivers in their last two first rounds.
The NFL Draft Landscape
Linebackers have seen limited selection in recent drafts. Here’s a glimpse of the first-round linebacker picks over the past three years:
- 2023: 1 linebacker
- 2024: 0 linebackers
- 2025: 2 linebackers
Current projections suggest that this could change for the Panthers if they opt for a linebacker at their 19th overall pick. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah emphasized that the selection of Ohio State’s Sonny Styles could redefine their draft strategy.
Talent to Watch
Sonny Styles, a formidable player at 6-foot-5 and 243 pounds, is viewed as a potential top-10 pick. He has transitioned from safety to linebacker and showcases exceptional abilities against both the run and pass. Alongside Styles, other key prospects include:
- CJ Allen: A late first-round prospect from Georgia, known for his leadership and quickness.
- Anthony Hill Jr.: A 6-foot-3, 238-pound linebacker from Texas, recognized for his tackling and run-stopping skills.
The Future of the Linebacking Corps
The Panthers’ strategy might also be affected by their actions in free agency. Notable names like Devin Lloyd and Bobby Wagner could change priorities. The depth of the 2026 linebacker draft class also presents a compelling case for waiting beyond the first round. Potential late-round selections include Kyle Louis from Pitt and Josiah Trotter from Missouri.
Culture and Mentorship
What sets the Panthers apart is their ability to offer mentorship from former stars like Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis. Many prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine expressed eagerness to work with Morgan and Kuechly. Styles himself acknowledged Kuechly’s influence, citing the Hall of Famer’s athleticism and intelligence.
For the Panthers, the decision to select a linebacker in the first round could redefine their franchise. If they act decisively, they may end a long-standing trend and secure the next face of their linebacking unit.
