Re-grading the Panthers 2020 NFL Draft class after the season
By Dean Jones
Troy Pride Jr. – Carolina Panthers CB
It proved to be a real baptism of fire for Troy Pride Jr. during his rookie season. The Carolina Panthers arguably put a little too much pressure on his shoulders due to their lack of depth at the cornerback position and given how even the most talented prospects struggle in this area during their first year, expecting miracles was ambitious.
Pride Jr. struggled for the most part and this is further reflected in his lowly 39.2 grade from Pro Football Focus. It is a little too early to be giving up on the former Notre Dame speedster just yet. But it is evident that he needs more coaching up before he’s fully ready to assume command of a starting role.
Draft Grade: D
The corner was seen as a raw prospect with the necessary athleticism to come on as time progresses. This was a steep learning curve for Pride Jr. and how he bounces back will be crucial.
Kenny Robinson – Carolina Panthers S
Kenny Robinson was one of the more intriguing prospects entering the league. The Panthers decided to take a chance on the safety following his outstanding series of performances in the XFL, but the is a gamble hasn’t worked out as all parties had hoped.
Robinson has been a relative afterthought in Carolina’s plans and was even waived at one stage of the campaign before being brought back onto the practice squad. His NFL career is now hanging in the balance as a result and it is clear much work needs to be done this offseason for him to be a part of the team’s long-term plans – providing he is given a new deal.