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 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 Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III.
Burden is listed at 5’10”, 208 lbs. Last season as a sophomore, he hauled in 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. That dynamic talent is why many pundits list him near the top of the 2025 big boards. There aren’t many weaknesses to speak of in Burden’s game. He is a fantastic route runner and separator, he’s explosive and twitchy in and out of his cuts, and has the top end speed to challenge defenses deep. On top of his ability to get open, he’s also a monster after the catch. He has the athleticism to make people miss and the strength and body type to break tackles. With this type of profile, it’s easy to see why many people see Deebo Samuel level potential in Burden. If Burden continues to grow and put up big numbers in the SEC, I have no doubt he’ll hear his name called early when the draft rolls around in April.
After spending a first round pick on wide receiver Xavier Legette, you may see a using a top pick for another receiver as unnecessary. Still, Diontae Johnson is on the last year of his deal, Adam Thielen is the oldest receiver in the NFL by two years, Legette is young and raw, and other picks at receiver have yet to pan out for the Panthers. On top of all that, the league’s move toward the passing game means receiving corps need to be three to four receivers deep. Look at the success the Bengals had with Chase, Higgins, and Boyd. The Panthers could have something similar in Legette, Burden, and Mingo.
If the Panthers do fine themselves in position to take Burden in the 2025 Draft, would you want the team to take him? Sound off in the comments below!