Todd McShay’s latest 2027 mock draft for The Ringer projects the Carolina Panthers selecting Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr seventh overall.
McShay does not expect Carolina to pick that high. He wrote that such a landing spot would signal a change at the position.
“I don’t foresee the Panthers picking this early, but it would be time to move on from Bryce Young if that’s the case,” McShay wrote.
The mock frames Carr as a potential long-term replacement for Young, the No. 1 overall pick in 2023.
Young is entering his fourth NFL season. He has not received a contract extension.
In 2025, Young completed 304 of 478 passes for 3,011 yards, 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He added 216 rushing yards and two scores.
Young opened 2026 with 361 passing yards, three touchdowns and one interception in a 59-37 loss to Chicago. He also ran for a touchdown.
Carr, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound junior, started all 12 games for Notre Dame in 2025. He completed 195 of 293 passes for 2,741 yards, 24 touchdowns and six interceptions.
The Fighting Irish won 10 straight after an 0-2 start. Carr threw at least one touchdown in every game.
Through two games in 2026, Carr is 35 of 49 for 492 yards and six touchdowns with no interceptions.
His career totals stand at 230 of 342, 67.3 percent, 3,233 yards, 30 touchdowns and six interceptions.
McShay graded Carr a 93 and praised his processing and mechanics.
“Carr processes quickly, plays on time, and operates with the polished mechanics of a much more experienced quarterback,” McShay wrote.
“His quick release, anticipation, and ability to layer throws into tight windows give him an excellent NFL passing foundation.”
McShay noted areas for growth. Carr needs more consistency throwing over the middle and on the move.
Still, McShay sees franchise starter potential and a personality fit with coach Dave Canales.
“He’s got some Baker Mayfield–type moxie to him that I think Dave Canales would appreciate,” McShay wrote.
The projection comes with six quarterbacks in McShay’s top 10, including Arch Manning first to Miami.
Carolina’s early-season record and Young’s consistency will determine whether the team stays in range for a high pick.
For now, the mock draft keeps the conversation open: Carr as the next option if the Carolina Panthers decide Young is not the long-term answer.
