4 potential replacements for Tre Boston in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Richie Grant – Central Florida
Matt Rhule claimed after seeing Richie Grant first hand at the 2021 Senior Bowl that the safety was the one he’d like to coach the most. His high level of production both during team drills and on the field left a notable impression, of that there is little doubt. But whether this means he’ll end up with the Carolina Panthers is still undecided.
There is a lot to like about the skill set Grant brings to the table. He is versatile enough to play in a multitude of different roles, which is something the Panthers clearly sought in the majority of their recruits during free agency and the NFL Draft last year.
Grant is extremely physical and has all the size and athleticism needed to make a real go of things at the next level. The Central Florida prospect always seems to be around the action, with his ball skills another standout feature of his game that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Covering from the slot is one of Grant’s specialties, which would add another string to his bow in pursuit of making an immediate impression on whatever team the player ends up being taken by.
If Grant can improve his technique from a tackling perspective and be a little less rash in his decision-making, then he is a definite option on day two of the draft weekend. The Panthers also got a good look at what the player could bring from a character perspective throughout their productive week in Mobile.