Carolina Panthers rookie safety Zakee Wheatley ranks second among NFL safeties in Pro Football Focus’s defensive grading for the 2026 season, posting an overall mark of 89.8 through six weeks. The only player ahead of him is Green Bay’s Evan Williams.
After being a healthy scratch in Carolina’s regular-season opener, Wheatley has quickly become an important part of the Panthers’ defence. Selected in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft out of Penn State, he has started three of the four games he has appeared in, compiling 18 combined tackles, a forced fumble, and two pass deflections.
In Week 6 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Wheatley logged a career-high 52 defensive snaps. His performance earned him an 85.7 overall defensive grade from PFF, the highest among Panthers defenders in the 25-14 victory. His consistent play has helped him lead the entire Carolina defence in grading heading into Week 7.
The Panthers have benefited from Wheatley’s emergence as they look to improve their defensive unit. Despite being a late-round pick, his impact is notable given the competitive level of NFL safeties this season.
PFF’s grading system takes into account a range of factors, including tackling, coverage skills, and playmaking ability. Wheatley’s grade reflects strong performances across those areas, positioning him near the top of his position league-wide.
Carolina’s coaching staff has increased his role steadily, a trend highlighted by his snap count in recent weeks. The Panthers face the next challenge of maintaining defensive consistency as they progress through the middle of the season.
Wheatley’s rise as a rookie safety ranks among the more impressive stories of 2026, given the adjustment required at the professional level. His current standing in PFF’s grades suggests he is adapting quickly and contributing meaningfully to Carolina’s defensive efforts.
According to Yahoo Sports.