2021 NFL Draft: Franchise QB falls to Panthers at No. 8 in latest mock
By Dean Jones
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. IOWA. ALARICJACKSON. player. OT. 135. 87
No. 135: Alaric Jackson – OT (Iowa)
Whether Russell Okung is brought back next season or not, the Carolina Panthers need to add some more depth to their offensive line. They have gotten off to a tremendous start to the season as a unit and in Greg Little, they might just have their long-term successor at left tackle if his performance against the Cardinals was any indication.
Alaric Jackson is one of the quickest offensive linemen entering the 2021 NFL Draft. This is sure to make him a hot commodity in the mid-rounds that might even see the prospect go higher with an expected strong display at the Scouting Combine.
He needs to be looked at as a work in progress rather than a day-one starter, which is what the Panthers will be looking for initially.
EDGE. 167. player. 87. Scouting Report. CLEMSON. XAVIERTHOMAS. Pick Analysis
No. 167: Xavier Thomas – EDGE (Clemson)
There are some character concerns that need to be alleviated by Xavier Thomas, but there is no disputing the sort of skill set he brings to the table.
His time at Clemson has been littered with memorable highlights thanks to his explosive burst and relentless pursuit of opposing quarterbacks. This might be an area the Carolina Panthers need additional depth to further bolster their options behind Brian Burns and other promising edge rushers.
PITTSBURGH. 199. player. 87. OL. JIMMYMORRISEY. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
No. 199: Jimmy Morrisey – OL (Pittsburgh)
Rounding off this latest mock draft for the Panthers is Jimmy Morrisey, a versatile lineman who can operate anywhere across the interior protection.
More. Early first-round 2021 NFL Draft candidates for the Carolina Panthers. light
He is a big body that is hard to move off the block and the prospect plays every down with ruthless aggression that is sure to stand out on film. Morrisey has made a solid start to his final season at Pittsburgh and he might just find himself in the right sort of spot to hear his name called.