Carolina Panthers Draft: Is Jalen Hurts worth the gamble?

What would Hurts bring to the Panthers?

Jalen Hurts went into this year’s NFL Scouting Combine as a projected third-round selection. This has risen considerably and he might not even last past the second round.

The Carolina Panthers need to strengthen several different areas before focusing on a potential backup quarterback that could develop into a potential starter. Their secondary is set for a significant makeover this offseason and the interior of the defensive line also needs some reinforcement to give the franchise the best possible chance of succeeding.

There is some considerable interest in Hurts from several different organizations. He represents an intriguing prospect that can open up an offensive scheme thanks to his versatility, two-dimensional play, and ability to find the end zone.

Hurts has all the tools at his disposal to have a good NFL career. Providing there is not too much pressure put on his shoulders right away, there is some real potential there. The quarterback boasts a wealth of big-game experience in the college system and this will also stand him in good stead.

Drafting Hurts is a low risk, high reward option in the second or third round and he has the ability to be a real game-changer. Whether their need for defensive help in Carolina will impact their ability to pick someone like Hurts remains to be seen.

Putting the player in a backfield that already consists of All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey and newly signed quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has enormous potential.