The Carolina Panthers wrapped up their 2026 draft class on Saturday by selecting Miami University (Ohio) linebacker Jackson Kuwatch with the No. 227 overall pick in the seventh round. The selection, reported by NFL.com, adds depth and special teams potential to a linebacker room that has undergone significant turnover this offseason.
For a franchise still in the early stages of a rebuild under head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan, late-round picks represent critical opportunities to find undervalued contributors who can carve out roles on rookie contracts. Kuwatch, who spent four seasons with the RedHawks, brings a blend of athleticism and instincts that could make him a developmental piece for Carolina's defensive coordinator, Ejiro Evero's scheme.
Who is Jackson Kuwatch?
Kuwatch emerged as a standout linebacker for Miami University over the past two seasons, earning All-MAC recognition in 2025. At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, he possesses the physical frame that typically translates well to the NFL level, though his athletic testing numbers suggest he may lack the elite speed that teams covet in modern off-ball linebackers.
What Kuwatch lacks in top-end burst, he compensates for with football intelligence and relentless effort. His tape reveals a player who diagnoses plays quickly, takes proper angles to the ball carrier, and rarely misses tackles in space. He was the heart of Miami's defense, often wearing the green dot helmet and making pre-snap adjustments--a responsibility that speaks to his mental processing ability.
In 2025, Kuwatch recorded 98 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions. He also forced two fumbles and broke up four passes, demonstrating proficiency in both run defense and coverage--skills that could help him compete for a roster spot.
The Fit in Carolina's Linebacker Room
The Panthers entered the 2026 draft with a clear need for linebacker depth. The team's starting linebacker positions appear set, but behind them, competition for rotational roles and special teams spots is wide open. Kuwatch projects as a classic seventh-round pick--a player who will need to prove his value primarily on special teams before earning defensive snaps.
Carolina's defensive coordinator, Ejiro Evero, runs a scheme that values versatility and intelligence at the second level. Linebackers are asked to read and react quickly, fill gaps against the run, and drop into coverage on passing downs. Kuwatch's skill set aligns well with those requirements, though the jump in competition level will test his physical limits.
One area where Kuwatch could immediately contribute is on special teams. The Panthers have placed increased emphasis on improving that phase under special teams coordinator Tracy Smith, and late-round picks are often drafted specifically with special teams roles in mind. Kuwatch's tackling reliability and motor make him a natural candidate for coverage units.
Draft Context and Team Needs
The selection of Kuwatch comes after the Panthers addressed several more pressing needs earlier in the draft. Carolina invested premium picks in the offensive line, defensive backfield, and wide receiver positions before turning to linebackers in the seventh round.
This approach fits a team still building its foundation. The Panthers have young starters at linebacker, but the shelf life at the position is notoriously short. Adding a player like Kuwatch, even if he never develops into a full-time starter, provides crucial depth and insurance against injuries.
General manager Dan Morgan, a former linebacker himself, has shown a preference for players who demonstrate high character and collegiate production in the later rounds. Kuwatch fits that mold--he was a team captain for the RedHawks, a three-time Academic All-MAC selection, and reported to have excellent work ethic and leadership qualities according to scouting reports.
What to Expect in Training Camp
Kuwatch will enter training camp as a long shot to make the 53-man roster, which is the reality for any seventh-round pick. The Panthers have a depth chart with more experienced linebackers and recent higher draft picks, so he will need to quickly impress coaches during camp and preseason.
The practice squad remains a likely landing spot if he does not crack the active roster. Carolina has been aggressive in developing young talent through this pathway, and Kuwatch's intelligence and special teams value would make him a strong candidate to be retained in that capacity.
For Kuwatch to earn playing time, he will need to show growth in coverage and run defense against NFL-level competition. His college tape suggests he can handle these responsibilities at the MAC level, but the jump to the NFL's speed, size, and complexity is substantial.
The Broader Picture for Carolina's 2026 Draft Class
With Kuwatch's selection, the Panthers have now completed their 2026 draft class. The team entered the draft weekend with limited picks following previous trades, but the front office managed to add several players who could contribute immediately or develop into future starters.
The philosophy behind this class appears to be measured growth rather than boom-or-bust gambles. Carolina targeted players with high floors and defined roles in early rounds, while Kuwatch represents the opposite end--a late-round choice with the potential to outperform his draft slot.
Fans should temper expectations for immediate impact from Kuwatch. Seventh-round picks rarely make significant defensive contributions in their rookie seasons. However, if he can earn a role on special teams and develop steadily in practice, he could become the kind of undervalued contributor that championship teams find late in the draft.
Final Thoughts
Jackson Kuwatch's selection at No. 227 overall embodies the type of pick that rarely grabs headlines but can quietly pay dividends. The Panthers have identified a player who produced at a high collegiate level, possesses the mental traits conducive to NFL success, and understands that a path to a roster spot likely involves hard work on special teams.
For a franchise aiming to build a sustainable winner, finding players with Kuwatch's makeup in the seventh round is essential. The linebacker has the tape and character profile to surprise observers. Whether this translates into NFL longevity depends largely on his ability to adapt to the speed of the pro game and carve out a defined role on a roster still in formation.
As Carolina looks ahead to rookie minicamp and the start of training camp, the focus naturally falls on higher-profile picks. But the seventh-round linebacker from Miami (OH) is a player to watch. If his college career is any indication, Kuwatch is built to exceed expectations.