Carolina Panthers Draft: 7-round all-offense mock draft
By Dean Jones
Pick No. 2: Alex Leatherwood – OT (Alabama)
One of the main problems for the Carolina Panthers to rectify this offseason is a long-term solution at left tackle. Russell Okung has done well after arriving via trade earlier this year. But his $13 million in base salary is coming off the books and the Super Bowl winner hasn’t exactly been the most reliable in terms of health.
Drafting Alex Leatherwood in the second round could end up being a steal. The Alabama edge protector is as physically imposing as they come and has a bright future ahead of him if the player makes a smooth adjustment to the next level.
This need would become even greater if the Panthers don’t come to a contract extension agreement with stud right tackle Taylor Moton, which would be nothing short of a disaster.
Pick No. 3: Mac Jones – QB (Alabama)
There are fewer players entering the 2021 NFL Draft who have raised their stock more than Mac Jones this season. The quarterback has emerged from Tua Tagovailoa’s shadow with the Crimson Tide and is a leading Heisman Trophy candidate after an exceptional campaign.
Jones is never going to wow you with mobility and his accuracy throwing downfield does need some work. However, his balance and technique are absolutely flawless, which will transition well to the pros providing he is allowed to develop at his own pace.
This is something the Panthers can provide. Teddy Bridgewater looks set to be under center in 2021 and drafted a development prospect like Jones wouldn’t be the worst move in the world.