Panthers 2021 Draft: QB gamble landed in latest 7-round mock

Liam Eichenberg – OT (Notre Dame)

It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers need a complete overhaul on their offensive line before competitive action gets underway in 2021. Four of the five starters from this season are out of contract and center Matt Paradis also faces an uncertain future given the amount of savings involved with his potential release ahead of time.

Whether Paradis sticks around or not, the Panthers need to grab a talented edge protector who could slot in opposite Taylor Moton, providing the stud right tackle is re-signed. Liam Eichenberg enjoyed a fantastic 2020 campaign with Notre Dame and comes with a significant amount of upside that might even result in the lineman becoming a plug and play starter from day one.

Carolina seems intent on either trading for or drafting a quarterback this offseason. So it is vital that they get better protection for the impending arrival to thrive.

Deonte Brown – OG (Alabama)

One of the players who stood out during Senior Bowl practice in front of the Panthers coaching staff was Deonte Brown. The interior lineman is an incredible specimen in terms of size, but his level of quickness and ferocity during team drills won’t have gone unnoticed by NFL scouts in attendance.

Brown is the prototypical size for a guard and played a leading role in Alabama’s convincing National Championship success in 2020. His ability to create gaps on running downs is especially pleasing, with the player also boasting some surprising footwork that also catches the eye.

Any team that drafts Brown will need to keep a close eye on his weight and conditioning. But there is a lot to like about his immediate potential to make a difference within an area of need for Carolina.