Jonathan Mingo Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Panthers pick a 'bowling ball' to help Bryce Young

By Cory Kefauver | Last updated 4/28/23

In the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday, the Panthers drafted a big-bodied target to boost a receiver room that lost star D.J. Moore in the offseason.

Jonathan Mingo, a 6-foot-2, 220-pounder from Ole Miss, should be a solid weapon for Bryce Young, the former Alabama QB whom Carolina picked with the first overall pick on Thursday.

Before the draft, NFL Network's Steve Smith Sr. — a star wide receiver for the Panthers from 2001-13 — praised Mingo.

"He knows how to work," he said of Mingo, adding, "He's a bowling ball."

Jonathan Mingo is Mr. Consistent

You have my stamp of approval ✅#CutToIt✂️ | @UnderdogFantasy pic.twitter.com/jHLkFCzjmy
— Steve Smith Sr. (@SteveSmithSr89) April 25, 2023

In free agency, Carolina added receivers Adam Thielen and D.J. Chark. Mingo, the 39th overall pick, will provide an injection of youth and a strong slot option. He should be a great target for Young on short passes.

Carolina traded Moore to Chicago in the deal to acquire the No. 1 overall pick.

NFL.com knocked Mingo in pre-draft rankings for his lack of explosive ability, but he makes up for that with his size. While he might not have the burst to get open every play, his size will help him win contested catches.

NFL.com praised Mingo's run-blocking ability, which could be a great asset to the Panthers if they go with a ground-heavy attack, as expected.

The Panthers will likely look to run the ball frequently with Miles Sanders, the former Eagles back signed in free agency. Sanders is coming off a career year in which he rushed for 1,269 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl nod.

If the Panthers can establish a running game and a short passing game, they can take pressure off their young QB.

With the retirement of Tom Brady in Tampa Bay, the NFC South is wide open. Carolina (7-10) — which doesn't have a No. 1 pick in 2024 — finished only a game behind the Bucs last season.

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