NFL Draft Wishlist: Carolina Panthers
By Josh Carter
The Carolina Panthers are on the path to greatness, with playmakers emerging in various different positions. They have Cam Newton leading a pair of great running backs in Stewart and Williams, an aging but still quite effective Steve Smith and a defense with a strong young cornerstone in Luke Kuechly. The Panthers also have some talent at defensive end in Charles Johnson and retained Captain Munnerlyn at CB. Carolina should focus on solidifying their defensive front with a solid defensive tackle. A wide receiver who could eventually take over for Steve Smith would also be really nice.
November 3, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive tackle Star Lotulelei (92) chases Washington State Cougars quarterback Jeff Tuel (10) during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Round 1 – Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah – If any team should trade up for a specific player it’s Carolina for a playmaking defensive tackle like Star Lotulelei. He’s been one of the hottest prospects since we started talking about the draft. With the sudden emergence of Shariff Floyd and speculated health problems, Star Lotulelei may actually be snagable at #14 (but unlikely). The trade up would be worth giving Kuechly that support on the defensive front and would fill Panther’s biggest position of need with one of the biggest potential players in the NFL Draft. Star Lotulelei will not only fufill a need, but as his name hints, can be a star on the defensive side of the ball in Carolina.
Dec 1, 2012; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears wide receiver Terrance Williams (2) makes a catch in front of Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Justin Gilbert (4) during the game at Floyd Casey Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cowboys 41-34. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Round 2 – Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor – A high production young WR is exactly what the Panthers need to take if given the opportunity. Terrance Williams led the nation in receiving yards his last year and showed that he could put up high numbers with two different types of QBs in RG3 and Nick Florence. Cam may be a little reminiscent of RG3 for Williams and can have him hit the ground running his rookie season. Of the 2nd round receivers, I can see this red zone threat catching the most touchdowns from Cam Newton.