The Chicago Bears officially traded the #1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers with the start of the new league year on Wednesday, March 15. In return, the Bears received the #9 pick and a second round pick in this year’s draft, a 2024 first round pick, a 2025 second round pick, and star WR DJ Moore. Needless to say, it was quite the haul for the Bears.
The Panthers, however, get their choice of QB.
But who will Carolina select? Let’s take a look at all their options.
C.J. Stroud (-220)
The current favorite to go first overall is Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud. Stroud makes a lot of sense for Carolina. At 6’3″, his big frame fits right into the category of previous QBs under Panthers’ head coach Frank Reich. He shined in the College Football Playoff to secure himself as a top QB in this draft. His arm strength and accuracy fit the template for any great QB in this league, and his ability to use his legs to extend plays will make him an exciting option if Carolina decides to take him with the first overall pick.
Bryce Young (+250)
Bryce Young was the original favorite to go first overall, but after the Panthers traded up, his odds dropped. It certainly wouldn’t be surprising to see Young get selected by Carolina. The main knock on Young is his size. He’s only 5’10, but his talent is undeniable. He’s coming from Alabama, so he has already been playing in a pro-style offense. Young has solid pocket presence and also uses his legs to extend plays. His deep ball leaves much to be desired and isn’t as strong as some of the other QB prospects, but if the Panthers want someone who can start Week One, Young would be their guy.
Anthony Richardson (+350)
Florida QB Anthony Richardson wasn’t in the discussion to go first overall… until the NFL Combine. To say teams fell in love with Richardson in Indianapolis would be an understatement. He is one of the most athletic QB prospects we have ever seen. At 6’4″, he runs a 4.43 40-Yard Dash. He’s the truest “dual-threat” QB in this draft, and his arm strength is unbelievable. The biggest issue with Richardson is his inconsistency. One throw will be right on the money, and the next one won’t be so great. His inaccuracy is a red flag, but his upside is absolutely there. He won’t be a player who should start in Week 1, or even Year 1, but with the right coaching, Richardson could become a good starting QB for the Panthers.
The Panthers have a lot of really intriguing options. The bottom line is they need to nail their selection. The QB that Carolina selects needs to be their franchise guy.
Carolina, you’re on the clock.
