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 Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss.
Bio
Chambliss grew up in Grand Rapids, MI but was not a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. He ended up committing to Ferris State with a partial scholarship, and eventually parlayed that into a starting gig with the Bulldogs in his junior season. After tearing up Division II and helping Ferris St earn a third National Championship in four seasons, Ole Miss came calling with a transfer offer. Chambliss was initially the backup, but an injury to then-starter Austin Simmons thrust Chambliss into the starting role. Despite not taking over until week three, he ended the season as just the seventh Ole Miss quarterback to throw for over 3,000 yards in a single season. He also added almost 500 rushing yards and 24 total touchdowns.
Strengths/Weaknesses
From a physical perspective, Chambliss has elite burst and top-end speed (he runs a 4.4 forty yard dash) and insane arm strength for his frame. His running ability forces defenses out of two deep shells while his deep ball touch makes defending him a pick-your-poison situation. Chambliss also plays with patience, using his mobility and pocket feel to buy time for receivers while keeping his eyes downfield. He plays with confidence and conviction, rarely double clutching or second guessing his reads. That confidence bleeds over to his teammates, many of whom have gushed about his leadership abilities. Chambliss also has excellent ball security while running (zero fumbles on 118 total carries).
Chambliss is slightly undersized at 6’1”, 200 lbs. He’s an aggressive runner who doesn’t shy away from contact, so there are some concerns about his durability at the next level. The shorter throws that require more touch and timing cause him some trouble from time to time. Layering throws and throwing with anticipation and touch are a requirement at the NFL level, and that is something he absolutely has to work on. On top of those concerns, we have a very small sample size against top competition. If he played another season against SEC defenses, would they eventually figure him out? Who’s to say?
Projection
Chambliss will not be a top of the draft selection (barring some insane run during the College Football Playoff). His physical tools and clutch moments will likely land him on Day 2 of the Draft. His inconsistencies in the short and intermediate ranges and the questions about his frame will limit how high he rises to a certain extent. Chambliss is a project, but the potential is there.
The Carolina Panthers will likely head into the 2026 season with Bryce Young as the starter, but Andy Dalton is 87 years old and did not perform well in limited action this season. Chambliss could be a decent depth quarterback and potential backup in case Bryce gets injured (or starts to struggle again). Picture a better and younger version of Hendon Hooker: a high upside swing who could potentially keep you afloat for a drive or two. He could turn into a quality backup who can lead the charge for multiple games in a season if need be.
What do you think, Panthers fans? If Trinidad Chambliss is available when the Panthers select in the 2026 NFL Draft, should they take him? Sound off in the comments!
