Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan is focused on enhancing his team's defensive backfield following the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly after selecting safety Lathan Ransom. Morgan emphasized the importance of adding physicality and a strong defensive presence to the roster, hinting at the potential pursuit of additional free agents to bolster the safety position.

Despite the presence of Tre'von Moehrig, who recently signed a lucrative contract, Morgan expressed confidence in his versatility beyond just being a box player. He mentioned that while Moehrig can handle deep coverage, the team still intends to explore the free-agent market for further upgrades, keeping names like Julian Blackmon and Marcus Williams in consideration. With the team's current roster depth in the safety position, the Panthers are poised to make strategic moves to enhance their secondary.

Steve Smith Sr., a legendary figure for the Carolina Panthers, expressed skepticism towards the team's draft pick of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at No. 8 overall. On his podcast, he noted that while addressing a need on offense, the team missed a chance to bolster a defense that struggled significantly last season. Smith believed the franchise should have prioritized impactful defensive players, particularly highlighting the historically weak performance that allowed a record 534 points last year. Furthermore, he argued that McMillan adds to a roster already filled with possession receivers, suggesting alternatives that could have better complemented quarterback Bryce Young.

The 2025 NFL Draft has reshaped various offenses, with seven teams standing out as most improved, setting the stage for an exciting fantasy football season ahead. The Carolina Panthers made headlines by selecting Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan, a potential game-changer for QB Bryce Young, while the Chicago Bears bolstered their offense with the acquisitions of TE Colston Loveland and WR Luther Burden III, who both show promise to contribute early.

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a strategic move to draft Travis Hunter, who is expected to excel as a versatile offensive weapon. The Los Angeles Chargers have strengthened their backfield by adding RB Omarion Hampton, complementing their existing talent, while the Las Vegas Raiders picked up RB Ashton Jeanty, who had an outstanding college career. The New England Patriots focused on supporting QB Drake Maye with multiple offensive picks, potentially transforming their attack. Finally, the Tennessee Titans selected QB Cam Ward with the first overall pick, aiming for a significant upgrade at the position. These strategic choices not only enhance team dynamics but also significantly impact fantasy football landscapes for the upcoming season.

Trevor Etienne steps into a highly competitive backfield with the Carolina Panthers, joining Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle, and Jonathon Brooks, all of whom have recently garnered investment from the team. This crowded situation raises questions about Etienne's potential workload and fantasy viability for the upcoming season.

Measuring in below the 25th percentile in terms of height and weight among running backs, Etienne's physical profile may limit his usage in traditional running situations. However, his versatility shown during his time at Georgia, where he led the team in snaps, suggests he could carve out a niche role. Fantasy football enthusiasts should monitor how the Panthers' coaching staff plans to utilize him.

As fantasy football enthusiasts prepare for their 2025 rookie drafts, running backs dominate the top ranks, with Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton leading the charge. Jeanty, selected by the Las Vegas Raiders at pick 6, boasts a stellar college performance, showcasing both rushing and receiving abilities. In contrast, Hampton, taken at pick 22 by the Los Angeles Chargers, is a powerhouse runner with potential in a run-heavy offense. However, his receiving skills may hold him back from immediate stardom.

Wide receivers like Tetairoa McMillan (Carolina Panthers, pick 8) and Colston Loveland (Chicago Bears, pick 10) also make waves, with McMillan poised to be a top target in his rookie year. Tight ends like Loveland show promise, but may face limitations in a deep receiving corps. Overall, the class offers a blend of high-upside talents and potential role players, creating excitement for fantasy owners and dynasty leagues alike.