4 prospects Panthers could reach for with their 2021 first-round pick

Caleb Farley – CB (Virginia Tech)

While there is a tremendous amount of upside where Caleb Farley is concerned, picking him at No. 8 overall might be seen as a little too high for the cornerback.

However, he has all the physical attributes that the Carolina Panthers sought heavily in their recruitment process last year. So if they miss out on their top signal-caller, it would be useful to boost an improving young defense that made some considerable strides in 2020.

It’s hard not to love the way Farley adjusted to becoming a defender after stints at quarterback in high school and as a wide receiver during his early part of college. This knowledge of both positions is reflected in his outstanding anticipation on throws and an ability to cover almost any route with efficiency.

He has the size, length, and athleticism for greater growth once the player gets to the next level. Farley’s lack of experience doesn’t come across when he steps onto the gridiron and providing the Virginia Tech star can improve his capabilities in zone coverage, someone is going to have a real player on their hands.

Even though there is a lot to like about Farley’s potential, this would be a reach for Carolina considering their needs elsewhere. One could also argue that if they were going to select a corner in the first round, then Alabama’s shutdown outside presence Patrick Surtain should be the guy.