Yet again, the Carolina Panthers ceased a dreadful 5-12 season, which endured the wrath of the NFC South. Although, following a productive and fruitful NFL Draft, the Panthers hope to reclassify their recent frailties. With first-rounder Ikem Ekwonu, and quarterback sensation Matt Corral, the Panther future has an emphatic jingle to its name. Now we will file each of the primary draft picks and present an award for each selection.
Make sure to check out all of our other NFL Draft Recaps.
Best Pick: Ikem Ekwonu (Round 1, Pick 6)
Installed in Ben McAdoo’s Panther offense, Ekwonu seems to be a mainstay for the endeavored offensive line. With a 6’4″ frame, weighing in at 310 lbs, Ekwonu constructs a rigid profile that checks off several of the tools needed as a lineman. Ekwonu is an efficient run-pass protector which factors well with his thick build. In addition, Ekwonu’s athletic abilities provide the ability to maneuver around advancing defenders.
Grade: A
For more on Ekwonu, check out our scouting report on him.
Worst Pick: Amare Barno (Round 6, Pick 189)
While Barno isn’t much of a powerhouse, he possesses a certain tenacity that many defenders lack. However, this pick raises concerns as the Panthers now carry four defensive ends on their roster. Per ESPN.com, Barno is listed as the third-string defensive end, which could entail a low measure of field time. Despite Barno being a sixth-round pick, the Panthers have several gaps in their roster which does not involve a defensive end.
Grade: C
For more on Barno, check out our scouting report on him.
Sleeper Pick: Matt Corral (Round 3, Pick 94)
In previous seasons, the Panthers have struggled to maintain a resilient yet reliable quarterback. However, it seems those flaws may be dismissed with the forte of Corral. Out of the University of Mississippi; formally known as Ole Miss, Corral may be the advocate for McAdoo’s offense. While Corral tends to evade in high-pressure situations, his accuracy and athletic technique defy any blemish whatsoever. Who knows what the future has in store for Corral, however, the current odds are pointing toward a substantial role in the Panther offense.
Grade: B
For more on Corral, check out our scouting report on him.
Summary
The Panthers have constructed a well-respected draft class built around the sensation of Ekwonu. While just six picks to account for, the Panthers took full advantage of the premiered draft class. From Corral in the early going of the draft to Cade Mays in the closing two rounds. In addition, there is much inquiry as to the whereabouts of the Panthers quarterback situation. Will Sam Darnold retain his role as the starter? Or can Corral beat the odds and undermine Darnold? All of this gossip lies in the premises of head coach Matt Rhule who hopes to make dew out of his impending draft class.
Grade: B+
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