Panthers 2021 Draft: OL takes focus in latest 7-round mock
By Dean Jones
Sean Clifford – QB (Penn State)
If the Carolina Panthers’ loyal fanbase is looking for a quarterback with a “bombs away” mentality, then Sean Clifford fits the bill. The Penn State star has a rocket for an arm that he perhaps relies too heavily on at times, but considering that the team is tied to Teddy Bridgewater next season, this should allow a potential college recruit to develop at their own pace.
Clifford has an up and down final season with the Nittany Lions, so he is definitely classed as a work in progress coming into the NFL. His short to intermediate throwing needs some work, as does his ability to recognize pressure – but his effortless ability to get the football downfield is something Carolina has been craving this season and simply not received from Bridgewater.
Amari Gainer – LB (Florida State)
Getting in a young linebacker to improve depth is still essential, even though the recent production of Jermaine Carter would indicate it might not be the pressing need it once was. Amari Gainer has all the athleticism that the Panthers sought heavily during their recruitment process last time out and although general manager Scott Fitterer is sure to have his own set of ideas, this is an avenue they should continue to go down in 2021.
Gainer recorded 134 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, four sacks, and three forced fumbles during his time at Florida State, with his versatility to play anywhere on the second level another strong factor that shouldn’t be overlooked.
T.J. Vasher – WR (Texas Tech)
The Panthers might be aiming to improve their options at wide receiver with the status of Curtis Samuel up in the air. He is out of contract this spring and it remains to be seen whether Carolina can keep him around, especially considering how much interest there could be on the free-agent market.
T.J. Vasher is a big body at 6-foot-6 that offers something a little different from what Carolina currently has at its disposal. The wideout is a force to be reckoned with in the red zone and accumulated 21 touchdowns from 146 receptions over a four-year period at Texas Tech.