Way-too-early Carolina Panthers 3-round 2023 NFL mock draft

Although it is a long time away, which prospects could the Carolina Panthers potentially have their sights on during the 2023 NFL Draft? 

Almost as soon as the 2022 NFL Draft comes to a conclusion, speculation begins about the next batch of recruits entering the league this year. The Carolina Panthers managed to get themselves a nice haul with not much in the way of capital this spring, which filled problem positions and depth chart spots with high athletic prospects who could become valuable contributors over time.

Obviously, there is a lot of football to take place between now and when it’s time to pick the next set of prospects from the college ranks. The Panthers could also be in the midst of big changes next offseason if things continue to trend downwards for Matt Rhule, who has no more excuses following some impressive signings throughout the offseason.

According to Spotrac, the Panthers are projected to be $28.34 million over the cap next season on the premise that resources increase to around $220 million. This is a sticky spot thanks to restructures and extensions, but Samir Suleiman’s presence in the front office should ensure that the team can maneuver enough cash around to make some noise.

This will make their draft picks more important than ever. But much will depend on the progress of players like Matt Corral, who was taken in the third round and might become their franchise signal-caller of the future with additional development.

Using the Pro Football Focus simulator, we took a look at what the Panthers could potentially do with their picks in a way-too-early three-round 2023 mock draft.