Carolina Panthers draft: 5 Big Ten players on the radar in 2021

Carolina Panthers Prospect No. 2: Shaun Wade (CB) – Ohio State

Another player that the Carolina Panthers will no doubt be taking a close interest in is Shaun Wade. The cornerback has two seasons of quality film to call upon during his time at Ohio State. And this is something that should ensure his draft prospects are not impacted a tremendous amount with a canceled Big Ten football season.

Wade is a bundle of energy at the position who plays with infectious aggression that is hard not to love. He has thrived as a slot corner with the Buckeyes. And his power to play in press coverage is something that is set to make a smooth transition to the next level.

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His ability to impact the game in running situations is another element of his game that cannot be overlooked. Wade is a solid tackler at the second level who can make a real difference at the top of his game. And this could be an area of a significant need for the Panthers in 2021.

They go into the season with Donte Jackson, Eli Apple, and fourth-round pick Troy Pride Jr. as their starting trio. And if this unit wilts under the pressure from some exceptional passing attacks on the schedule. It is sure to result in the organization using a high-end draft selection on a potential shutdown corner next year.

There are some question marks regarding Wade’s ability to cover on the outside. And this is something he was looking to prove in the absence of Jeff Okudah in 2020.

That will now not be the case. But there is a lot to like about Wade’s skill set and how it can make a difference at the next level.