7 prospects for Panthers with a top-5 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Which players are in play for the Carolina Panthers if they secure a top-five pick?
Even though it might not seem like it, there are some reasons to be excited regarding the Carolina Panthers in the coming months. It promises to be another important and eventful offseason period as the front office looks to make the right sort of moves to ensure they become a legitimate postseason contender in the second year of Matt Rhule’s reign, which means the roster might look far different once again next year.
One thing the Carolina Panthers do have going for them is the prospect of another high-end 2021 NFL Draft pick. Their loss at the Green Bay Packers on Saturday Night Football takes the team to 10 losses and if things continue in the same manner over their final two games then it is almost guaranteed to come with a top-five selection.
That might put them in a position to select Clemson sensation Trevor Lawrence, who looks bound for the moribund New York Jets. But there are plenty of other enticing options that would be an outstanding addition to a roster that does have some exciting young players from which to build a possible contender.
Here are seven prospects that will be in play for the Panthers if they end up with a top-five pick next spring.
Prospect No. 1
Justin Fields – QB (Ohio State)
If the Panthers are selecting in the top-five of the 2021 NFL Draft, then Justin Fields might become a realistic option providing on what happens immediately after the Jets take Lawrence at No. 1 overall. The Ohio State quarterback has all the tools necessary to become a franchise-altering player at the next level and it is going to take a brave team to pass on him if they get the opportunity.
There are already some serious doubts as to whether Teddy Bridgewater is the man to lead Carolina moving forward. If the front office feels the same, it might see them select a signal-caller early in the draft in a bid to improve their fortunes.
It appears unlikely that Fields will be around after the first two picks. But the Panthers would give him close consideration if presented with the chance.