Panthers 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: Swinging big edition

Carolina Panthers draft Marvin Mims Jr.

• Wide Receiver | Oklahoma Sooners

D.J Moore will continue to be the catalyst at wide receiver and the emergence of Terrace Marshall Jr. in 2022 was a welcome surprise. But NFL offenses run three wide receivers most plays, and the Carolina Panthers pick up an intriguing option in the mid-rounds.

Marvin Mims Jr. declared early for the draft. And despite having a limited route tree and unpolished skills as a receiver, the 20-year-old has one of the higher ceilings of any player in this draft class.

He produced 54 catches, 1,083 receiving yards, and six touchdowns during his junior year at Oklahoma. This is in addition to the 69 catches, 1,315 yards, and 14 scores he put up during his first two years in college.

Mims has very good body control in the air, probably the best out of all the receiver prospects in this class. Combine that with his speed and down-field route running, and you have a deep threat that can push defenders back to open up space underneath.

He also brings value as a returner. Something that Frank Reich and his special teams coaches led by Chris Tabor can use on the Panthers.

Selecting Mims also allows Moore to get more opportunities in the slot. That gives offensive coordinator Thomas Brown several ways to get his best weapon the ball.

Mims brings value to the offense right away. If the exceptional coaches in Carolina can develop his game to its full potential, the Oklahoma wide receiver will be one of the steals of the draft.