The Panthers should take an offensive tackle or edge rusher according to the latest round of mock drafts.
With the NFL Draft less than a month away, the Carolina Panthers still have numerous holes to fill in their roster. Whether it’s on offense or defense, the Panthers have dire needs on both sides of the ball. Particularly, at offensive tackle and defensive end. General manager Marty Hurney spoke with media earlier in the week hinting that Carolina’s free agency moves would allow the team to go after the best player available with the No. 16 overall pick.
In Dan Kadar’s latest mock draft for SB Nation, he predicts the Panthers will follow the game plan of choosing the best player available and will pick offensive tackle Jonah Williams.
16. Carolina Panthers: Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
Offseason needs: Edge defender, offensive tackle, safety, guard
A pass rusher has been the popular choice for Carolina in the first round, but if an offensive tackle as good as Williams drops to No. 16, he would be hard to overlook. He’s a powerful run blocker who will drive defenders backward. In the passing game, his smooth technique more than makes up for any concern about his length.
My take
Although the pass rush was the weakest link for Carolina last season (and in my opinion, is still their most important need), choosing Jonah Williams wouldn’t be the worst thing to happen. Ron Rivera has yet to commit if either Daryl Williams or Taylor Moton will get first look at left tackle. With Cam Newton coming off a shoulder injury, it’s crucial to be able to protect him in the upcoming season. Jonah Williams can provide just that needed security. Although many are concerned with his length, Jonah Williams has power and mobility. His footwork is smooth and and he has play strength. Jonah Williams plays like a natural and shouldn’t need to be coached up much.
What others are saying
Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports agrees with Kadar on Jonah Williams being picked in the first round by the Panthers.
16. Carolina Panthers: Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
Williams, who is coming off an impressive 2018 season, can play right tackle in the NFL and even kick inside to guard or center, if needed.
In Matt Miller’s latest mock draft for Bleacher Report, he projects the Panthers will go after their defensive need.
16. Carolina Panthers: Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State
The Panthers needed help on the offensive line so they went out and signed center Matt Paradis to give Cam Newton a foundation on the line. That’s one big need checked off, but general manager Marty Hurney must get back to what made him successful in his first run as the team’s decision-maker: getting after the quarterback.
Florida State’s Brian Burns is a dynamic athlete at 6’5”, 250 pounds with the length and flexibility to be a nightmare for offensive tackles when he’s bending around the edge. He was productive at FSU but also comes into the league with plenty of traits that point to continued improvement in the pros.
Sports Illustrated’s Kalyn Kahler also believes Carolina should focus on the pass rush.
16. Carolina Panthers: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE, Clemson
The Panthers signed Bruce Irvin in free agency but the 31-year-old is on a one-year deal. Carolina could use youth at the position. Ferrell gets to quarterbacks and is strong against the run.
What do you think? Is it smart to go after an offensive player? Or should Carolina address their weak spot at defense?