5 lively outsiders for the Panthers first round pick in 2021
By Dean Jones
Jaylen Waddle – WR (Alabama)
It doesn’t appear as if the Carolina Panthers will have enough financial resources at their diosposal to prevent Curtis Samuel from leaving in free agency. Couple this with Pharoh Cooper and Brandon Zylstra also out of contract, and the offense could be short of prominent pass-catching weapons outside of star duo D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson.
Anderson and Moore are both out of contract in 2022, but the latter will no doubt get his fifth-year option picked up to give the Panthers more time to work out an extension. This draft class isn’t as deep at wide receiver as the 2020 college recruits, but there are some elite prospects set to be gone within the first 20 selections.
One such player is Jaylen Waddle, who is arguably the best wideout entering the NFL this year.
There is a high likelihood that Ja’Marr Chase and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith get picked ahead of him due to his significant injury suffered earlier in their season, which could result in the electrifying Alabama star becoming a real steal.
Waddle recorded 106 receptions, 1,999 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns during his career with the Crimson Tide. His yards-per-reception average of 21.1 this season is nothing short of phenomenal and if Samuel eventually departs, this is a tailormade replacement who might end up being an upgrade.
This is a luxury pick that general manager Scott Fitterer might not be able to afford given the pressing needs elsewhere. However, if Waddle falls to No. 8 overall, then a discussion needs to be had.