Panthers should target two-time Pro Bowl WR for Bryce Young

After snapping a seven-season playoff drought in 2025, the Carolina Panthers have been aggressive in free agency, signing multiple high-value defenders like edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd.

As they look to build on a breakout year for the former No. 1 overall pick quarterback Bryce Young, the Panthers have looked for ways to make him comfortable, adding offensive line depth and reuniting him with former Alabama teammate, wide receiver John Metchie III.

With that in mind, Carolina could explore a trade with the Denver Broncos, who recently acquired Jaylen Waddle, to see if they would consider dealing former two-time Pro-Bowler Marvin Mims Jr. from a crowded receivers room.

The Broncos now have Jaylen Waddle, Marvin Mims, and Troy Franklin. With Courtland Sutton and Pat Bryant in hand, gotta imagine they'll hear trade calls on Mims and Franklin

Speed element missing from Carolina offense

The drafting of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was groundbreaking for Young's development. 

In his rookie season, McMillan quickly emerged as a top target, leading the team with 1,014 yards, 70 receptions and seven receiving touchdowns, earning the 2025 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

While McMillan cemented himself as the team's No. 1 receiver, Young dealt with inconsistency from the rest of the group. After McMillan, the next most productive receiver was Jalen Coker, who finished with 394 yards on 33 receptions.

Mims took a step back in his third season after a breakout campaign the year prior. After producing 503 yards and six touchdowns on 39 receptions in 2024, Mims only had 322 yards and one touchdown on 37 receptions as his duties shifted mostly to catching screen passes behind the line of scrimmage.

However, after Troy Franklin and Pat Bryant exited Denver's divisional round matchup with injuries, Mims stepped up with eight receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown, reminding the league he can be more than just a special teams contributor.

Carolina’s receiving core is currently filled with possession receivers, but Mims would bring a skillset the offense lacks. His speed and ability as a deep ball threat would force defenses to stretch the field, opening up the middle of the field for more yards-after-catch opportunities for McMillan.

Mims is still only 23-years-old and will be entering the final year of his rookie contract. His value as both a punt returner and receiver makes him an underrated but productive piece to add to a young Panthers roster.

If the Broncos continue to underutilize Mims, Carolina should explore adding the speedy receiver and trying to bring out his potential.