Let’s take a closer look at some of the prospects the Panthers could select in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Since it’s never too early to look forward to the NFL Draft, this weekly series will take a closer look at some of the prospects the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2025 iteration of the Draft. In this series, we’ll only be looking at prospects the Panthers could seriously consider. For example, we won’t be looking at any of the top quarterback prospects in the hope that the team won’t be in the market for a franchise guy come April. This week, our profile will focus on Michigan cornerback Will Johnson.
At 6’2″, 205 lbs, Johnson has the ideal size to be an outside corner at the next level. The son of former Michigan corner Deon Johnson, Will started as a freshman and immediately made an impact. He cemented himself as a top prospect heading into the 2024 college football season last year as he racked up award after award: First Team All-American, First Team All-Big 10, Defensive MVP of the National Championship Game. His four tackles and interception in the title game against Washington capped off a lock-down year from Johnson.
From a film review perspective, pundits agree that Johnson has the tools to be a fantastic cover corner in the NFL. He has more than enough athleticism, and his technique and scheme flexibility add to an already impressive toolbox. He does need to work on getting his head around on pass breakups to avoid pass interference calls, but aside from that and a couple other nitpicks, he’s an incredibly strong prospect. With Jaycee Horn on his fifth year option and depth behind him lacking, the Panthers could absolutely find themselves needing to insert a guy like Johnson into the lineup next season.
If the Panthers do find themselves in position to take Johnson in the 2025 Draft, would you want the team to take him? Sound off in the comments below!