Cat Scratch Reader
Even though the 2025 NFL season just started, it’s never too early to look ahead toward the 2026 NFL Draft. This weekly series will take a closer look at some of the prospects the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2026 iteration of the Draft. In this series, we’ll only be looking at prospects the Panthers could seriously consider. This week our profile will focus on Utah Utes offensive tackle Spencer Fano.
Fano has been one of the top tackles in the nation since becoming the starting left tackle for the Utes as a true freshman. He has since split time between the two tackle positions, allowing for some positional versatility. Between his first two seasons on campus, Fano racked up the honors including second team All-American, first team All-Big 12, and Academic All-Big 12.
Fano has elite height (6’5”) for the tackle position. He is an explosive athlete, which shows up in his movement ability and blocking power in the run game. Fano also has impeccable football IQ and kick-slide technique for such a young player. On top of all these elite traits, he also has that “nasty” element that many teams love their offensive linemen to have. The combination of physical, mental, and personality strengths make Fano the most pro-ready lineman in the upcoming Draft.
Fano’s lean frame (302 lbs) is a slight concern for some as he heads to the next level. Aside from that and some minor quibbles about his consistency in hand placement and punch timing, he is a very clean prospect.
Fano is almost assuredly a day one starter at either tackle position. Some teams might consider pushing him inside to guard due to his lean frame and arm length concerns. Best case scenario, Fano ends up as a perennial Pro Bowler at tackle who pushes for All-Pro consideration.
Taylor Moton turns 32 in March and has shown kinks in his iron-man armor this season. While the Panthers don’t have a financially realistic way out of Moton’s contract until after the 2026 season, it could provide a little bit of runway for Fano to get used to the NFL game. The Panthers could then move Fano into the right tackle spot or swap Icky to the right and Fano to the left, depending on who fits better where. With the rash of injuries on the offensive line this season, chances are Fano would see the field quite a bit whether or not he officially starts his rookie year.
What do you think, Panthers fans? If Spencer Fano is available when the Panthers select in the 2026 NFL Draft, should they take him? Sound off in the comments!
