Panthers Eyeing Top WR Prospect in Latest Mock Draft

KC Concepcion could provide a potent weapon for QB Bryce Young in 2026.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:48am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in shades of blue, black, and red depicts the motion and energy of a football game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the strategic battle between offense and defense.A cubist illustration captures the dynamic interplay between Carolina's rising star quarterback and a top receiving prospect, hinting at the potential offensive firepower on the horizon.Charlotte Today

According to the latest NFL mock draft, the Carolina Panthers are considering selecting wide receiver KC Concepcion in the first round to bolster their passing attack around quarterback Bryce Young. Concepcion, who had 25 touchdowns at Texas A&M, would join a receiving corps that already includes 2025 first-rounder Tetairoa McMillan.

Why it matters

The Panthers made a surprising run to the playoffs in 2025, but need to continue upgrading their offensive weapons to help Young take the next step in his development. Adding a dynamic playmaker like Concepcion could give Carolina's offense the boost it needs to contend in the NFC South.

The details

In his latest mock draft, CBS Sports' Mike Renner has the Panthers selecting Concepcion, who is considered one of the top receivers in the 2026 class. Concepcion had 61 catches for 919 yards and 9 touchdowns for Texas A&M last season, building on a college career that saw him total 185 receptions, 2,218 yards, and 25 scores. The Panthers have taken a receiver in the first round in each of the last two drafts, selecting Tetairoa McMillan in 2025 and Xavier Legette in 2024, though Legette has largely disappointed so far.

  • The Panthers made a surprising playoff run in the 2025 season.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Bryce Young

The Panthers' starting quarterback, who had a breakout season in 2025 and will look to build on that success in 2026.

KC Concepcion

A wide receiver prospect from Texas A&M who is projected to be one of the top pass-catchers available in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Tetairoa McMillan

The Panthers' first-round pick in 2025, who had a strong rookie season and will be a key part of the team's receiving corps in 2026.

Xavier Legette

The Panthers' first-round pick in 2024, who has largely disappointed so far in his NFL career.

Jaelan Phillips

An edge rusher the Panthers added this offseason to bolster their defense.

Devin Lloyd

A linebacker the Panthers added this offseason to improve their defensive unit.

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What they’re saying

“The Panthers go wide receiver in the first round for a third straight year. Concepcion brings juice and separation ability that no one else on the roster can match.”

— Mike Renner, CBS Sports Analyst

What’s next

The Panthers will continue to evaluate their options in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, with the goal of adding more offensive weapons to support Bryce Young and build on their 2025 playoff appearance.

The takeaway

The Panthers' decision to potentially select a top wide receiver prospect like KC Concepcion in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft reflects their commitment to surrounding Bryce Young with the best possible supporting cast as he looks to take the next step in his development and lead the team to sustained success.