Carolina Panthers: 2011 NFL Draft do-over (6 Rounds)

Carolina Panthers 2011 Draft Pick No. 166: Jason Kelce over Lawrence Wilson

With the 166th pick in the draft, the Carolina Panthers selected linebacker Lawrence Wilson, who never even suited up for the franchise. He had an impressive Senior Bowl which helped raise his draft stock a little, but the former Connecticut standout was released in November.

He was cited for speeding and marijuana possession which ultimately lead to his release. Wilson could have turned into a solid player but off the field life took control.

Wilson spent time with the Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, and St. Louis Rams as a practice squad player. But he never made the active roster and hasn’t been a part of any team since 2014.

This was essentially a throwaway pick for the Panthers considering he only lasted two months with the team. Carolina should have selected a lineman who would go on to be one of the best centers in the league.

The Philadelphia Eagles used the 191st pick to take Cincinnati lineman Jason Kelce. He had a slow start to his career but has been phenomenal since then.

He started all 16 games his rookie year but suffered a partially torn MCL and ACL during week two of the 2012 season. Kelce wound up missing the rest of the season.

Ever since his injury, Kelce has been one of the best centers in the league. And he is a big part of why the Eagles have had one of the best offensive lines in football.

From 2014 to 2019, Kelce has started all but four games. He has made three Pro Bowls and has been named first-team All-Pro the past three seasons.

Kelce is playing the best football he ever has in the latter half of his career. He’s 32-years-old and is easily the best centers in the league since Travis Frederick retired.

If the Panthers would have selected anyone over Wilson it would have been a better pick, but taking Kelce would have given the Panthers someone to help control the line of scrimmage with Cam Newton.