Carolina Panthers' Early Seven-Round Mock Draft
Getty ImagesThe Carolina Panthers are in the middle of what has turned out to be a historic season for the franchise. However, despite their impressive 11-0 start, there's still work to be done this offseason if they hope to continue their winning ways in 2016.
That's why I've taken an early look at how they could spend their six draft picks when the 2016 NFL Draft rolls around.
Note: The Panthers traded their sixth-round pick to the Chicago Bears for Jared Allen.
The Carolina Panthers are in the middle of what has turned out to be a historic season for the franchise. However, despite their impressive 11-0 start, there's still work to be done this offseason if they hope to continue their winning ways in 2016.
That's why I've taken an early look at how they could spend their six draft picks when the 2016 NFL Draft rolls around.
Note: The Panthers traded their sixth-round pick to the Chicago Bears for Jared Allen.
Round 1: Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Last year, the Panthers chose to ignore the left tackle position via the draft and instead filled the void with Michael Oher. While he hasn’t been a complete disaster, he’s far from a reliable option on the blind side. Bringing in a capable left tackle like Conklin would make Cam Newton a happy man.
Round 2: Rashard Higgins, WR, Colorado State
Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY SportsWhile most have him as a third- or fourth-round talent, I think Higgins has some serious second-round potential. The Colorado State product is lightning quick, and does a great job of using his speed and agility to create separation. Teaming him with Kelvin Benjamin and Devin Funchess would be an exciting trio.
Round 3: William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY SportsAn excellent mix of size, speed and instincts, Jackson has shown serious starter potential at Houston. With Charles Tillman and Josh Norman in contract years, it’s likely the Panthers will only bring back one (Norman, obviously). That leaves an opening for Jackson, who could team up with Bene Benwikere to fill the void.
Round 4: James Cowser, DE, Southern Utah
Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY SportsThe Panthers are no strangers to finding talent from small schools, and Cowser has the potential to be one of those diamonds in the rough. During his collegiate career, Cowser has lived in opponent’s backfields, excelling as a pass rusher and run defender. With so much uncertainty along the defensive line, adding an extra body with so much upside makes perfect sense.
Round 5: Josh Garnett, G, Stanford
Bob Stanton-USA TODAY SportsWith a number of the Panthers’ guards set to enter free agency this offseason, adding some depth at the position wouldn’t hurt. While Garnett has struggled to live up to his immense potential during his college career, the physical tools are there for him to develop into a quality backup at the next level.
Round 7: Trevone Boykin, QB, TCU
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY SportsWith Joe Webb set to be a free agent, the Panthers might simply opt to add another arm via the draft. Boykin has shown immense potential at TCU, but may lack the overall arm to be a starting quarterback in the NFL. However, given time and mentoring from Newton, there’s no telling what can become of the Heisman Trophy candidate.
