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Panthers NFL Draft targets: Wide receiver

By Brandon Scott

NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 01: Calvin Ridley #3 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates a reception for a touchdown in the first quarter of the AllState Sugar Bowl against the Clemson Tigers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 1, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 01: Calvin Ridley #3 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates a reception for a touchdown in the first quarter of the AllState Sugar Bowl against the Clemson Tigers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 1, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /
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PlayStation Fiesta Bowl - Penn State v Washington
GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 30: Wide receiver DaeSean Hamilton #5 of the Penn State Nittany Lions makes a 24 yard touchdown reception against defensive back Myles Bryant #5 of the Washington Huskies during the second half of the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. The Penn State Nittany Lions won 35-28. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

DaeSean Hamilton – Penn State (6-foot, 202 pounds)

Projected Round: 3-5

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After adding Smith via the trade executed by Hurney, the Panthers are set on the outside but will need one of their current receivers to fill in the slot position. Should they feel another option is best then DaeSean Hamilton would be the perfect solution.

Hamilton has shown excellent route running capabilities and has excellent size for a slot receiver. Depending on exactly what characteristics new offensive coordinator Norv Turner is looking for out of his third receiver, a mid-round pick could be used to add receiver depth.

"Hamilton totaled 53 receptions for 857 yards and nine touchdowns in 2017. At the Senior Bowl, he displayed that he is a good route-runner capable of generating separation and has generally reliable hands. Hamilton also contributed as a junior (34-506-1), sophomore (45-580-6) and freshman (82-899-2). At the East-West Shrine and Senior Bowl, Hamilton was impressive with his ability to get open via his route-running and quickness. He is a smooth, polished receiver who could contribute quickly in the NFL."

The Panthers have other areas of need, especially after losing out on cornerback Bashaud Breeland due to a failed physical. The losses of starting players at multiple positions has likely put wide receiver on the back burner, but a few of these prospects could hear their name called in the later rounds when Carolina is on the clock.

Next: Panthers Free Agent Targets

If not, expect another season with a less than stellar passing performance from Newton and continued inability to stretch the field against their opponents.

*Analysis via Charlie Campbell at WalterFootball.com

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