5 draft prospects that held virtual interviews with the Panthers
By Dean Jones
Sewo Olonilua – RB (TCU)
Another player that falls into the short-yardage specialist category is running back Sewo Olonilua. He is a burly figure who has all the physical attributes to make a real success of his NFL career in the right situation.
It is not hard to see why the Carolina Panthers are keen on the player. What Olonilua lacks in mobility and burst, he more than makes up for with aggression to deliver the sort of hit needed to get the yards required.
Whether this can make a transition to the pros against more physical defensive fronts remains to be seen. There is nothing to suggest Olonilua is not capable of smashing his way onto a roster in 2019 providing not too much is put on his shoulders during the early stages of his development.
Over his last two seasons at TCU, Olonilua rushed for 1,172 yards, and ten touchdowns from 269 carries. While the player doesn’t have the most imaginary running style that has ever entered the league. It does the job when needed and he has shown a real willingness to fit into a certain role and if he can improve his ball security, it will further enhance his prospects.
The Panthers will not want to put that added pressure of short-yardage on Christian McCaffrey. They would be wise to preserve their prize asset and keep him fresh.