WE are just two weeks away from the 2026 NFL Draft. So we will be analyzing every team’s needs, division by division. Today we are looking at the NFC South, which was led by the Carolina Panthers in the 2025-2026 season.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS-
The New Orleans Saints have two big needs to fill, Chris Olave is the only strong receiver on the books, so finding a partner for him is a huge need. Also finding an edge rusher on defense is vital, especially if veteran Cam Jordan doesn’t return for next season. If the Saints don’t love the options they have in those positions, the eighth pick could be used to find a replacement for nickelback Alontae Taylor.
ATLANTA FALCONS-
The Falcons don’t have a first round pick, so will struggle to find the big name that they probably need, they have signed Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheaus at receiver seems to be good for depth at receiver, but they could still use a true number two receiver to partner with Drake London.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS-
The Buccaneers are in need of some depth on defense, the signing of Alex Anzalone fills the linebacker spot, but the edge is severely lacking any explosive talent. The secondary needs to find some depth to replace Jamel Dean. Outside of the defense, the offensive line struggled last season due to injury, so more depth would be pleasantly invited in Tampa.
CAROLINA PANTHERS-
The Carolina Panthers don’t have any glaring needs, the signing of Rasheed Waler at left tackle fills the biggest need before free agency. They could look at filling the hole at center and getting a long term option if someone good falls to the 19 spot. Outside of the o-line, depth is probably the biggest need, finding some depth in both the secondary and at wide receiver, helping out both departments deep into the upcoming season.
