Panthers' 'most valuable trade asset' may come as a surprise

[ASFN Admin]

Could the Carolina Panthers squeeze their first-round pick for everything it's worth?

Well, that's the suggestion from Pro Football Focus contributor John Kosko—who recently named each NFL team's most valuable trade asset. Kosko writes that the 19th overall selection of the 2026 NFL Draft is Carolina's best chip at the negotiation table:

The Panthers made the playoffs but now sit at No. 19 overall with clear needs across the defense and a continued need to add weapons for Bryce Young. In a draft class as deep at premium positions, this pick offers significant flexibility — whether that’s moving up for a blue-chip talent or trading down to acquire multiple Day 2 selections.

Dealing the pick could also bring back proven veterans or additional draft capital to address holes on both sides of the ball while accelerating the team’s next step forward.

Dan Morgan hasn't stayed put much in his first two drafts as the team's general manager. His most notable draft-day moves came in 2024—when he traded up into the first round for wide receiver Xavier Legette, then back (and up again) for second-round running back Jonathon Brooks.

The Panthers are currently slated to enter the upcoming selection process with seven total picks—No. 19 (first round), No. 51 (second round), No. 83 (third round), No. 119 (fourth round), No. 158 (fifth round), No. 159 (fifth round) and No. 200 (sixth round).

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: NFL offseason: PFF names Panthers' most valuable trade asset

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