The Carolina Panthers sit one pick ahead of the New Orleans Saints in the NFL draft, so their decision in the first round impacts the Saints beyond just being a divisional foe. They also have similar needs, wide receiver and edge rusher specifically. So, they're a threat to keep players like Tetairoa McMillan, Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. from getting to the Saints. Kay Adams tried to pry some information on the Panthers' draft strategy out of Dave Canales, but he didn't let much slip.
One thing he did reveal is the Panthers had conversations around a potential DK Metcalf trade, but determined "you have to address the needs on defense first." It's a slightly surprising thought process, because Canales is an offensive minded coach, and Bryce Young closed last year strong. If you look at their free agency class, Rico Dowdle is the only offensive free agent to come to Carolina.
Canales' statement is backed up by the Panthers' offseason moves, but the new question is was that enough. Were the defensive additions enough for Canales to determine it's time to get his young quarterback some more weapons?
With no big move at edge rusher, the Panthers could still easily go either way. Canales' comments didn't necessarily reveal any needs, but rather highlighted them. As he mentioned, the Panthers were "32nd in the NFL on defense." That's true for points and yards. Of course, they are looking to renovate the defense.
Adam Thielen led the team in receiving last year. They need to get younger talent at the position. Drafting Xavier Legette last year was a start, but it certainly doesn't stop them from investing in the position again in the top-10 this year.
New Orleans should be looking to add a wide receiver with a bigger frame to the receiving corps. McMillan fits that mold. The Saints re-signed Chase Young, but running it back with the same pass rushers as last season makes significant improvements more difficult. Infusing the speed of Walker or Pearce Jr. would bolster the defense by making the pass rush faster.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Panthers coach Dave Canales may have tipped team's 2025 draft plans
