Why the Carolina Panthers should avoid Tua temptation
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers face a potential dilemma if Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovialoa falls to No.7 in the 2020 NFL Draft.
All eyes will be on Alabama’s outstanding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the 2020 NFL Draft. He has generated more headlines than any other prospect and has the potential to be a franchise signal-caller at the next level.
There is a real chance he lands in the top five. But if he is there for the Carolina Panthers at No. 7, it represents a real dilemma for the organization.
If he hadn’t suffered a serious hip injury in the Crimson Tide’s pivotal clash against rivals LSU last season, then Tua would be contesting Joe Burrow for the privilege of being the No. 1 overall pick. All the signs point to the player making a full recovery. But there are some who question his durability to have a prolonged career in the NFL.
This has been made more difficult for NFL teams thanks to the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing measures have prevented team doctors from getting their own look at Tua’s progress and rehabilitation. Which is also something that could impact his draft stock.
When Tua is firing on all cylinders, he is arguably the best quarterback in the class of 2020. There is nothing he cannot do with the ball in his hands and he represents a player with an All-Pro ceiling.
The question, and it is a big one, is can he stay healthy for a consistent period to turn a franchise around. Posting social media footage of workouts is one thing. But Tua will need much more than that to convince any NFL organization that he is a risk worth taking with a high pick.