It’s that time of the year again…NFL DRAFT TIME; Which also means there are two million mock drafts out before Thursday’s event. What’s one or two more? I took the time to do a couple different scenarios on what I would do if I were in the Panthers’ war room. It can’t be any worse than the real thing right?
On draft cycle one, one of the biggest needs fell right into the Panthers lap at the sixth spot with Ikem Ekwonu available. No brainer, right? Local product. Massive speed for his size and again, one of the biggest needs in this organization for years. But could this happen, realistically, with some mock drafts having the former Wolfpack lineman being selected in the first three picks. If he IS available, this is the best option available, as the Panthers could potentially make some noise this season with a franchise left tackle along with making an off the roster move at QB (Baker Mayfield trade).
Also available at the sixth pick in this run through was quarterback Malik Willis, who many have tied to the Panthers organization. QB is another need for the Panthers, but is Willis ready right now? We saw what Darnold and Walker did last year. Willis…welcome to Charlotte.
There was also a trade offer from the Packers to trade back to the 22nd and 28th pick and a second round pick in 2023, while the Eagles offered picks 15,51 and a 2023 second round for the Panthers first round pick and the 149 overall pick. This could also be an option, as the Panthers are low on picks this draft.
Notable late round picks during this cycle
- 138 – Jesse Luketa (Edge, Penn State) – Another need for the Panthers with Riddick in Philly.
- 144 – Cade Mays (Guard, Tennessee) – Can the Panthers draft enough lineman? Probably not.
- 149 – Mykael Wright (CB, Oregon) – Good draft report and another need for the organization.
- 199 – Bubba Bolden (Safety, Miami) – Great size and length. Could be another Chinn type player.
- 208 – Josh Jobe (CB, Alabama) – Potential to be a good late round steal.
In what will be the biggest draft in the Rhule era, it’s pretty evident what this organization needs. They can’t mess this up…..right?