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Panthers NFL Draft targets: Safety

By Brandon Scott

AUBURN, AL - NOVEMBER 25: Kerryon Johnson #21 of the Auburn Tigers is hit by Ronnie Harrison #15 of the Alabama Crimson Tide diving towards the endzone during the third quarter of their game at Jordan Hare Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL - NOVEMBER 25: Kerryon Johnson #21 of the Auburn Tigers is hit by Ronnie Harrison #15 of the Alabama Crimson Tide diving towards the endzone during the third quarter of their game at Jordan Hare Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Alabama v Florida State
ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 02: Derwin James #3 of the Florida State Seminoles reacts after a play against the Alabama Crimson Tide during their game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 2, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

DERWIN JAMES, Florida State (6-foot-3, 211 pounds)

Projected Round: Top-20

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Derwin James is highly regarded as the second best safety in the class and while Carolina hasn’t officially met with him, should he be available in round one, things could get interesting. If James were to fall a couple of positions then Hurney would likely have to make him the newest Panthers player.

A versatile athlete with a tremendous upside some analysts have projected James as a better option than Fitzpatrick. Depending on the need from other teams in the draft, Carolina may have their choice of these options when on the clock.

However, if not, it appears Hurney is at least putting in some research for potential picks after day one and it remains obvious that safety is a high priority position for the Panthers.

"In 2017, James totaled 84 tackles with 11 passes batted and two interceptions. He was able to display good instincts and rare combination of size, speed, physicality and versatility. Some teams have James as the top safety for the 2018 NFL Draft. For the NFL, James fits as a strong safety who is a tough eighth defender in the box. Some team sources feel that James is not a good fit as a deep center fielder. They think he has some coverage limitations as a free safety, but should be able to play man against tight ends. They don’t think he is a fit to play nickel corner and cover slot receivers. One area scout thought James could end up adding weight and grow into being a Will linebacker, similar to Mark Barron."

Next: NFL Draft - 5 Offensive Line Targets

For a position with an average age of 28.5 years on the current roster, the need for an influx of youth who can contribute well into the future is apparent.

*Analysis via Charlie Campbell at WalterFootball.com

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