Panthers 2021 Draft: 4 studs from Day 3 at the Senior Bowl

Richie Grant – S (Central Florida)

Of all the players who’ve boosted their stock during Senior Bowl practices, Richie Grant may have enhanced his prospects more than most. The Central Florida standout has been almost flawless through the three days and finished on a high in no uncertain terms on Day 3 of drills.

The safety is a ball hawk who seems to be in the right place at the right time on every down. Grant made two notable interceptions off Jamie Newman’s throws and displayed the sort of athleticism that was sorely missing from the Carolina Panthers starting duo of Juston Burris and Tre Boston in 2020.

It doesn’t look like Grant will be getting out of the first two rounds providing there are no complications during the evaluation process. His versatility to play on the backend or coming down to the second level to cover in the slot is something Carolina looked for in almost every recruit last year and even with new general manager Scott Fitterer on board, this mindset is unlikely to change.

Grant needs to work on his tackling angles against higher-class opposition in the NFL. But his high energy and ability to be around the ball consistently makes him an enticing prospect that the Panthers might take a long hard look at when it comes down to selecting their specific players of interest.