4 Clemson prospects the Panthers should consider drafting in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which Clemson prospects should the Carolina Panthers take a good look at before the 2021 NFL Draft?
The Carolina Panthers haven’t been renowned for selecting college prospects from Clemson over the years. Despite the program’s incredible success since the appointment of head coach Dabo Sweeney, those in power within the organization have been reluctant to take talented players from the Tigers into the next level despite the close proximity between the two.
One case in point was found when Carolina was on the clock at No. 7 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. There was plenty of upheavals when linebacker Isaiah Simmons fell out of the top-five and potentially into the Panthers’ laps. But they stuck to their guns and went with Auburn’s stud defensive tackle Derrick Brown, instead.
This proved to be the right move in no uncertain terms. But if there was ever a time when Carolina should consider bucking this trend when it comes to Clemson players, this spring might be it.
Carolina Panthers will miss out on Trevor Lawrence.
Of course, the main prize of Trevor Lawrence won’t be within touching distance. The quarterback has been the consensus No. 1 overall selection in 2021 for about two years and the Jacksonville Jaguars will surely select a player with the sort of upside not seen since Andrew Luck entered the league.
The Panthers won’t get this chance, but here are four Clemson prospects they might pull the trigger on should the opportunity arise.
Prospect No. 1
Jackson Carman – OT
It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers need a couple of solid prospects on their offensive line. Taylor Moton will be staying around in one way or another and Matt Paradis’ restructure should enable him to see out the final year of his deal. But the two guard positions and the all-important left tackle blindside protection could use some significant reinforcements.
Jackson Carman might have struggled in the big moments during the 2020 college football playoffs, but his full body of work at Clemson is something that should ensure he’ll be one of the first linemen to be taken this spring. He is a dominant force on the edge when some early momentum is generated, with the player’s quickness enabling him to assist at the second level when required.
Carman excels in run support and can create holes at will. There are some kinks to be worked out in terms of technique and recovery ability. So a move to guard is a realistic option that would also assist Carolina in a position of need.