4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers 2021 offseason
By Dean Jones
Defense first in the 2021 NFL Draft
The Carolina Panthers made NFL history during the 2020 Draft by becoming the first-ever franchise to use every selection on the defensive side of the ball. While that appears highly unlikely this time around given the need for offensive line improvements and a potential quarterback of the future, don’t be surprised if general manager Scott Fitterer decides to go defense with their first-round pick once again.
If, as expected, the top three signal-callers are off the board by the time Carolina is on the clock, then trading down for more draft capital is likely.
However, if there aren’t any takers in this regard, they might be prudent to get another dynamic defensive playmaker to further strengthen an ever-improving unit littered with young studs.
Someone like Alabama cornerback Patrick Surtain would be perfect. Putting him opposite Donte Jackson has the potential to transform the fortunes of Carolina’s secondary and could even result in Phil Snow moving away from the frustrating zone coverage scheme next season.
Another possible option is Micah Parsons, Penn State’s ferocious linebacker who has been projected by many to become the heir to Luke Kuechly with the Panthers.
With Kuechly still on the staff, bringing in someone like Parsons to learn from the perennial All-Pro could bring with it considerable benefits.
Other names worthy of consideration are Christian Barmore, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Kwity Paye, and Caleb Farley, who could all be around given the number of top prospects on offense who could be taken in the first seven picks.
This might not be what Panthers fans want to hear – especially with ongoing doubts surrounding Teddy Bridgewater – but it might be the smart way to go unless they are convinced a wildcard such as Trey Lance can make a smooth adjustment to the next level.