Panthers 2021 Draft: Pre-Senior Bowl 7-round mock draft
By Dean Jones
Jamie Newman – QB (Georgia)
If the Carolina Panthers like what they see from Jamie Newman at the 2021 Senior Bowl, then they might decide to pull the trigger on the dual-threat quarterback in the mid-rounds. He has more upside than most players at the position entering the draft this year, even if his stock was hampered slightly by opting out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 health concerns.
If Newman had performed well under center for Georgia in the SEC after transferring from Wake Forest, then it would have undoubtedly seen the prospect enter the first-round discussion. Carolina’s coaching staff will get to see him up close in the coming days, which will be a tremendous insight as they look to find a long-term solution to their problems.
Teddy Bridgewater just hasn’t reached the level expected. Newman will need to improve his accuracy once he gets to the next level, but there wouldn’t be a considerable amount of pressure for him to start right away given the contract given to their free-agent signing last year.
Trey Hill – OL (Georgia)
Improving the protection will be another strong focal point for the Panthers this offseason. There is uncertainty surrounding all five of the starting offensive line for differing reasons and considering how deep this draft class is for linemen, there won’t be a better time to implement a complete makeover in a bid to turnaround their fortunes.
Trey Hill is a mountain of a man who is a formidable presence to move off the point of attack. There are some kinks that need to be worked out regarding his athleticism, but few would argue he doesn’t represent good value at this spot.