Carolina Panthers: 3 Biggest priorities in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Tadhg Flynn
Carolina Panthers draft priority No. 2: Cornerback
In big games last year, the Panthers were let down on the defensive side of the ball by inconsistent coverage and an inability to shut down opposing teams’ star men. Clos,e one-score losses to the Raiders in Week 1, Chiefs in Week 9 and Vikings on Week 12 are prime examples of how a couple of plays being better contested or covered would turn the game in their favor.
Thankfully for the Panthers, their need at cornerback can be addressed in the 2021 NFL Draft. Multiple top prospects can address their need at the position. If the Panthers land a leader for the defence from these, they can immediately improve their secondary
Jaycee Horn out of South Carolina has the stature and physical size to cover in the NFL right now. According to PFF (subscription required), he allowed only eight catches across 24 targets in seven games this past season. His mentality is to fight for every ball and he could bring that tenacity to the Panthers’ secondary.
Patrick Surtain II seems to be a consensus CB1 in the 2021 draft. While he is reported to not have the electric speed that some decision-makers might want in a first-round corner, he has everything else. 116 tackles across three season of college, including the truncated 2020 season, show his tenacity and enjoyment of getting up close and personal.
His athleticism, technique and leading of the Alabama defence all contribute to the potential of a bonafide defensive star.