Carolina Panthers: Matt Rhule makes statement with historic draft

Rhule’s influence on the Panthers draft

Head coach Matt Rhule will have known first-hand just what college prospects fitted into his particular way of thinking. He saw plenty of them during his time at Baylor and this sort of insight would have been invaluable.

While it was somewhat surprising to see the organization use all seven of their selections on defense. It should not detract from the necessity of it. Their options were thin across virtually all positions and now they have a much-needed injection of youthful exuberance to going alongside the veterans who remain following their roster overhaul this offseason.

The likes of Derrick Brown and Yetur Gross-Matos are expected to immediately contribute. The franchise also has high hopes for Jeremy Chinn and Troy Pride Jr. for what they can bring in 2020. Almost every selection made by the Panthers possesses the sort of hunger and desire that were traits missing from the defense last term.

While this draft class does not take away from the difficulties awaiting Carolina next season. It does provide some indication about where Rhule wants to take this rebuilding process. He made a concerted effort to rid the franchise of underperforming roster members and replace them with individuals with tremendous skill sets who have a chip on their shoulder.

Rhule is no doubt going to throw some in at the deep end during the next campaign. So it will be a case of sink or swim for those mid-round players with potential. If they manage to rise up to the challenge then there is the potential for some quality additions that can make a real go of things in Carolina.

Whether that brings any immediate success remains to be seen. But Rhule has the team going in the right direction and it could result in a very exciting time for the franchise.