Organized team activities aren’t exactly the most intense workouts of the NFL offseason. This section is more about instilling ideas and familiarity than the grueling, grinding routines from the summer.
Still, these times can give us a glimpse of what a starting lineup, even a starting lineup, might look like.
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So, with the Carolina Panthers set to begin their OTAs on Tuesday, let’s take a look at six potential trades starting this week. . .
No. 3 WR
2024 first-round pick Xavier Legette may no longer be able to play a regular role this offense. His decline and shocking lack of spatial awareness continued through his first two campaigns—to the point where he saw his presence on the field decrease game by game in the latter part of the season.
A few months ago, the Panthers signed John Metchie III, Bryce Young’s favorite quarterback from their Alabama days, and drafted first-team All-SEC selection Chris Brazzell II in the third round of the 2026 draft. Given Metchie’s previous chemistry with the combination of Young and Brazzell’s speed, Legette could sense a few contenders coming to his position behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.
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Left grip
With regular starter Ikem Ekwonu likely to miss some time in the regular season, the tight end is wide open for Carolina.
This space appeared to be filled with shocking signings in free agency, when the Panthers returned to Green Bay Packer Rasheed Walker – the best left tackle in the market – for one year, $ 4 million. But about six weeks later, they got a chance to land a left tackle at the top of the 2026 draft in Georgia’s Monroe Freeling with their first-round pick.
While Freeling is considered a raw prospect, don’t count out the veteran in Walker—who is overpaid as a backup.
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Institution
As they did at left tackle, the Panthers found themselves with two potential solutions—one through free agency and the other through the mid-draft.
Veteran Luke Fortner will be challenged by fifth rounder Sam Hecht. Hecht was a phenomenal pass blocker during his time at Kansas State, where he was credited with zero sacks and 18 pressures during his four-year college career.
Nick cornerback
Despite some speculation that they might address the position, the Panthers haven’t added a notable nickel cornerback to their roster. That job, according to head coach Dave Canales, may already be secured by Corey Thornton—who excelled as a rookie before suffering a season-ending fibula fracture in Week 12.
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While fans may point to fourth-round pick Will Lee III as a new contender, “Blanket” plays mostly on the outside—and could serve as much-needed depth behind starters Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson. Instead, look for Chau Smith-Wade and undrafted signee DeVonta Smith to compete with Thornton.
Free security
Contrary to popular belief, Nick Scott was solid as the starter over Tre’von Moehrig in 2025. He may not, however, provide the ball-catching skills that general manager Dan Morgan is looking for at the top of his secondary.
Fifth-round pick Zakee Wheatley, who has been among the best at the college level, should be the focus here. Don’t overlook 2025 fourth-round pick Lathan Ransom either.
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Punt returner
Running back Trevor Etienne didn’t look as comfortable as the leading returner last season. That was evident in the wild card round against the Los Angeles Rams, where his early muff would have put the Panthers in a painfully deep hole.
Carolina not only needs more electricity in this role, but also needs more assurance. Maybe veteran big man David Moore or second-year wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. he can enter the conversation.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers 2026 OTAs: 6 potential starting jobs
