4 potential Panthers draft targets who saw their stock rise in Week 2
By Dean Jones
Jackson Carman – Clemson (OT)
Jackson Carman faced a stern test of his credentials in his season opener in the form of Wake Forest edge rusher Carlos Basham, who also projects to be a first-round pick when he enters the NFL.
The offensive tackle was tasked with protecting Trevor Lawrence’s blindside once again and it is a role in which he excelled. Carman thwarted Basham’s threat consistently and smothered the edge rusher throughout a dominant win for the Tigers.
Carman already looks more polished as a protector with another offseason under his belt. This bodes well for his chances of elevating his draft status ahead of his expected declaration for the 2021 NFL Draft and the sky is the limit if the player continues to make significant strides this season.
The Carolina Panthers got some outstanding production from their offensive line against the Raiders, giving up just one sack. This area was a real concern going into 2020. But the cohesion and chemistry they demonstrated as a unit was a pleasing aspect of a disappointing final result.
Russell Okung is playing on the last year of his deal and it remains to be seen whether or not he will be staying around. If the veteran Pro Bowler decides to take his chances elsewhere or even retire, then Carolina will need a contingency plan in place.