Panthers: Colorado cornerback Isaiah Oliver on team’s radar
The Carolina Panthers have worked out Colorado corner Isaiah Oliver…
As the NFL Draft gets closer, the Carolina Panthers continue to evaluate talent. Thursday, it was reported by Matt Miller of Bleacher Report that the Panthers have worked out Colorado cornerback Isaiah Oliver.
The Panthers are among several other National Football League teams that have done so. The Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots are just two of the teams on a lengthy list. This is notable due to the fact that they are the reigning Super Bowl contestants.
Isaiah Oliver has had workouts/visits with: Eagles, Falcons, Bears, Texans, 49ers, Cardinals, Panthers, Patriots, Saints, Broncos and Cowboys per sources. Really like the Arizona connection for him.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) April 11, 2018
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Oliver is a player that may not garner national attention, but one you should keep an eye on. As a freshman, he recorded 22 tackles as a reserve and on special teams. The following season, he received more playing time, appearing in 13 games, and recording two tackles while seeing 440 snaps of action.
2017 proved to be his breakout season as he was named a first-team All-Pac-12 player after recording 26 tackles, 12 pass deflections and two interceptions. These numbers were despite a leg injury that caused him to miss several games during the season.
In addition to his role at corner, he showed he was a man of many talents, returning punts as well. Over the course of two seasons, he returned 20 punts for 174 yards and a touchdown.
As Stephen Igoe of Panthers247 notes, Oliver is the definition of a Carolina Panthers cornerback. His long arms and speed in coverage are two aspects of the position the Panthers place a premium on. As of now, James Bradberry is starting opposite Ross Cockrell at the position.
Oliver would be a nice fit for the Panthers due to the fact that he has the skillset they are looking for. With the uncertainty of Luke Kuechly’s future and Thomas Davis retiring, the pass rush may not be as strong in the coming years.
What this means is that the defense will rely more on the coverage of the cornerbacks that much more. If they can get a guy with speed who can cover ample ground in a short amount of time, that would be ideal. The emphasis on a cover corner should be an important part of the Panthers’ roster blueprint moving forward.
Next: Panthers: Devin Funchess Due For A Big Year in 2018
Although visits and workouts happen frequently, this one may be of note due to the fact that the Panthers need to begin thinking about their future without some of their best defensive players.