Carolina Panthers: Grading team’s 2018 NFL Draft
The Carolina Panthers didn’t make any huge moves during the 2018 NFL Draft, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t pick up exactly who the team needs.
The 2018 NFL Draft has come and gone. In the future there’s going to be conversations about boosts and draft deals that will serve as fodder for debate. But right now, the talk is on whether or not the Carolina Panthers performed well during the draft this year, and the answer to that question is a solid “yes.”
The Panthers went into the draft with a solid understanding that there’s a variety of needs on both sides of the ball. When looking at who the team picked up, it seems like they made a concerted effort to bring in players that can have an impact immediately. In what was a heavily defensive-focused draft, the Panthers picked up a number of key players that can create an opportunity for competition at their positions and see as the cream rises to the top.
D.J. Moore and Donte Jackson are the top two names, going one and two in the draft. At wide receiver and cornerback, both of these players can see a lot of playing time as rookies.
In Moore, Carolina has potentially found the speed threat that they lost with the still-recent losses of Steve Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. Ever since Ginn left to go to the New Orleans Saints, Carolina has struggled to find an outside player that can stretch the field. Moore’s 40-yard dash time shows that he has the foot speed to do so and what he lacks in size, he should be able to make up in breakaway opportunities.
Jackson also brings speed to the table and he seems to have what it takes to be a compelling choice to start opposite of James Bradberry. The Panthers are still looking for that top defensive back that can replace Josh Norman, and while Bradberry continues to develop in a good way, Jackson can be the individual that helps push him and others to excel.
Next: Carolina Panthers: Reviewing DJ Moore
Beyond these two the Panthers selected a number of players that don’t impress on name value alone, but they each bring some tools to the team that are needed at this time. Rashaan Gaulden and Jermaine Carter Jr. are two more defensive backs to help add to the coffers in the backfield.
Marquis Haynes and Andre Smith add depth for an often injury-plagued group of linebackers. Then there’s Kendrick Norton, who brings an extra body to the defensive line. All of these are key positions on this Panthers’ defensive group that were addressed through the draft.
Carolina Panthers 2018 NFL Draft Grade: B
Next: 2019 NFL Mock Draft: Way too early projection for next year
All in all, it’s safe to say that the Carolina Panthers played it conservative during the 2018 NFL Draft. They didn’t make any major moves that shook up their roster. Instead, they team focused on the needs of the moment and picked up what they considered the best player to fit the need. In the end, giving this team the grade of a B is the right move heading into the start of the 2018 workout program.