Panthers trade up for Zach Wilson in 7-round mock NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Round 1 (Pick No. 3)
Zach Wilson – QB (BYU)
The Carolina Panthers get their quarterback of the future by trading up to No. 3 overall and taking Zach Wilson. In this simulation, the organization gave up No. 8 and No. 53 in the 2021 NFL Draft, together with second and fourth-round picks next year to get someone who some experts believe will be even better than Trevor Lawrence at the next level.
This was possible after the New York Jets took Justin Fields, although they are also strong candidates to select the BYU standout if they decide to move on from Sam Darnold. Taking such a big leap up and giving up three future selections in the process is a big gamble. But Wilson has so much going for him and is one of the draft’s hottest commodities.
The level of production Wilson demonstrated during his final season was extraordinary. He completed 73.5 percent of hisses on his way to 3,692 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, just three interceptions, and an eye-popping passer rating of 196.4.
To say this made more than a few NFL teams sit up and take notice would be something of an understatement. Wilson seems to possess a rare ability to make even the most difficult of throws and his adaptability when plays aren’t working out as expected is something else that should make a smooth transition to the pro ranks.
This is a high-risk move by the Panthers. However, the potential rewards are there for all to see.