The Carolina Panthers are making headlines in ESPN's early 2026 NFL mock draft by potentially breaking a 30-year tradition of not selecting players from Clemson University. According to analyst Matt Miller, the Panthers, currently positioned to pick 6th overall, are slated to draft Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods. This choice comes after a surprising decision last year to prioritize a wide receiver over defensive needs, highlighting a continued focus on building their defensive line around Derrick Brown.

Woods, a 6-foot-3, 315-pound talent, has demonstrated impressive statistics with three sacks and 17 pressures in the previous season. His quickness and leverage are expected to bolster Carolina's revamped defense, which has already seen the addition of former Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton on a three-year contract. The Panthers appear committed to strengthening their defensive unit, which struggled last season.

The Carolina Panthers have officially announced the new jersey numbers for nine players, primarily recent additions to the team. Running back Rico Dowdle will wear No. 5, previously held by wide receiver Diontae Johnson, while safety Tre'von Moehrig takes on No. 7, which was last worn by linebacker Jadeveon Clowney. Wide receiver Hunter Renfrow has opted for No. 13, a number most recently associated with Deven Thompkins. Linebacker Trevin Wallace will switch from No. 56 to No. 32, last donned by safety Lonnie Johnson Jr. Other notable number changes include kicker Matthew Wright (No. 37), linebacker Christian Rozeboom (No. 56), outside linebacker Pat Jones Jr. (No. 91), defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton (No. 92), and defensive lineman Bobby Brown III (No. 97).

The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves at a crossroads as they consider their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Tamba Hali, a beloved former linebacker for the Chiefs, advocates for the team to address their defensive lineman needs. With the departure of veteran Tershawn Wharton in free agency, adding a budding talent to their lineup seems critical. Hali’s influence continues as he mentors younger defensive players, making his preference for a defensive lineman particularly poignant. The Chiefs' front office, led by General Manager Brett Veach, is faced with the decision to either heed Hali's advice or explore other options. The team's recent performance underscores the urgency of reinforcing their defensive strength, particularly in the wake of previous challenges.

Milton Williams, the standout defensive lineman who recently signed a lucrative four-year, $104 million deal with the New England Patriots, revealed that he was very close to joining the Carolina Panthers. During an interview, Williams shared how the negotiation process unfolded rapidly, with multiple teams competing for his services, ultimately leading to New England's late but decisive offer.

The Panthers, who made a significant bid, ultimately retained their stance when the Patriots upped the ante. Following the missed opportunity with Williams, Carolina swiftly pivoted, securing agreements with other notable defensive players, including Tershawn Wharton and Pat Jones II, to bolster their roster.

The Kansas City Chiefs enter a new chapter as free agency advances, marking the departure of vital veterans like Justin Reid and Tershawn Wharton. Both players have signed with new teams, with Reid heading to the New Orleans Saints and Wharton joining the Carolina Panthers. The Chiefs, fresh off a Super Bowl appearance, are now tasked with replenishing their roster amid significant changes.

General Manager Brett Veach will be pivotal in navigating the free agent market, where several key defensive players remain available. While the loss of Reid and Wharton is felt deeply, the Chiefs are looking at potential replacements who could help maintain their competitive edge in the league.