Panthers 7-round 2023 mock draft: Daring trade brings rewards

Carolina Panthers select Jahleel Billingsley

• Tight End | Texas

Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble’s growth as blockers at the tight end position should be commended. However, neither offers anything consistent in the passing game and that’s why the Carolina Panthers could explore alternative options in 2023.

Whether this comes in free agency or the 2023 draft is debatable. One could argue that a new college quarterback needs a dependable veteran presence to lean on, but it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see Carolina use one of their high-end picks on strengthening their options, either.

In this scenario, the Panthers wait a little longer and take a swing on Jahleel Billingsley, the athletically gifted Texas star who’s not enjoyed the best campaign since transferring from Alabama.

Billingsley was suspended for the first six games and hasn’t shone upon his return to the rotation, bringing in just three receptions for 38 receiving yards in four games to date. Something of a surprise considering his 6-foot-4 game and his potential to create mismatches all over the field.

This might turn out to be a wasted pick. Billingsley could also be a diamond in the rough, which is something general manager Scott Fitterer is renowned for picking out further down the pecking order.