Panthers Draft: 5 potential replacements for Russell Okung in 2021

Carolina Panthers Player No. 5: Alex Leatherwood (OT) – Alabama

If the Carolina Panthers decided to take their quarterback of the future or address other needs in the first round. Then there are plenty of intriguing 2021 prospects that could be available on day two.

One such individual is Alex Leatherwood, who is a commanding figure as an edge protector for Alabama. He has the right blend of size, strength, and quickness that is normally coveted heavily by NFL teams looking for their next long-term starter at tackle. And it would be a shock if the player didn’t enhance his draft stock in the coming months.

Leatherwood has a firm base that makes him a force to be reckoned with on running downs. He is also nimble enough to cope with even the speediest of pass-rushers. And the lineman has elite hand placement that has been coached up superbly at the Crimson Tide.

There are some elements to Leatherwood’s game that need work. He can become too aggressive off the block that leads to him being beaten on occasions. And his technique is also an area that poses some concern in an NFL environment.

Leatherwood will need to brush up on his positioning before he can take the field at the next level. But one is just splitting hairs to find faults regarding a player with substantial upside.

The Panthers will need to find a long-term solution at the tackle position opposite Taylor Moton sooner rather than later. And Leatherwood should be high on their list of possibilities.