An NFL Draft Day-Two Primer

Coming into this draft we had identified several needs for the Carolina Panthers – (in no particular order) OT, DT, FS, TE, RB, WR.  On day one, the team addressed two of those needs with Jonathan Stewart, a big, fast runner and Jeff Otah, a mauling tackle.

So, what can we expect on day two?  Let’s take a look at who might be available with each of the next two picks.  (Note: Each player’s scouting report is available by clicking on their name.)

Third Round, Fourth Pick, Pick 67 Overall

Dajuan Morgan, SS, NC State – Had been rated as high as a first-round pick by some Scouts.  Has slid down draft boards.  Could be a decent addition and might be able to play FS in the NFL.

Marcus Harrison, DT, Arkansas – He rated well among the defensive tackles in this draft class.  He could be available to fill what has become a pressing need for the Panthers.

Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan – The Panthers will likely not go after a receiver this high but he is an intriguing prospect.

Early Doucet, WR, LSU – Again, maybe not what the team would do, but he’s been rated much higher than this on many draft boards.

Third Round, Eleventh Pick, 74 Overall

Xavier Adibi, LB, Virginia Tech – He wouldn’t necessarily fill a need but would be hard to pass up if he’s still on the board here. 

Pat Sims, DT, Auburn – It’s a bit surprising to me that Sims has made it to the third round.  He likely won’t be available here but there’s always that chance since he’s already slid this far.

Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida – Another receiver who could get a look.  The team might take a chance once they make it this far on another skill-position player.  Caldwell could be a guy to keep an eye on.

Also on Sunday the Panthers will pick sixth in round 5 (141 overall), fifteenth in round 6 (181 overall), fourteenth in round 7 (221 overall) and thirty-fourth in round 7 (241 overall).

Interesting stats:

Since John Fox took over the team in 2002, he’s had six drafts through 2007.  In his tenure, there have been 27 offensive players selected and only 22 defensive players selected.

In the last six drafts, the Panthers have selected the following on offense – 2 QB’s, 5 RB’s, 5 WR’s, 5 TE’s, 3 OT’s, 4 guards, and 3 centers.

The same time span has seen the following added to the defense – 6 CB’s, 3 DB’s (no specific position listed), 4 DE’s, 2 DT’s, 6 LB’s, and 1 SS.