Panthers 2021 Draft: Pre-free agency 7-round mock draft
By Dean Jones
Which way could the Carolina Panthers go with their 2021 NFL Draft selections ahead of a crucial free agency period for the organization?
The Carolina Panthers are about to embark on a critical period of free agency that will go a long way to shaping the fortunes of the franchise. They have more salary-cap space than most to make the moves needed to take that next step and enter the postseason discussion, but general manager Scott Fitterer has stated his desire to adopt a patient approach in the current climate.
This is probably a wise move in the grand scheme of things. This is going to be an offseason like no other due to the eight percent reduction in financial resources available, so there might be some veteran bargains to be had that could make an immediate contribution.
Of course, this time of year is always an exciting one surrounding the NFL Draft evaluation process. With no Scouting Combine in its normal format due to COVID-19, scouts will be relying on film and pro-day information to identify prospects of interest.
The next few weeks will be a busy time for the Carolina Panthers.
Carolina got a good look at some potential recruits when they coached at the 2021 Senior Bowl, with Fitterer also developing a reputation for finding some gems in the later rounds during his time with the Seattle Seahawks.
There is every chance their needs change over the next few days depending on what moves they make during the initial stages of free agency. The Panthers have around $32.59 million to spend, according to Spotrac, so it will be interesting to see what new faces come into the organization in the not-too-distant future.
Using the Pro Football Focus mock draft simulator, we took a look at what the Panthers might do with their selections prior to the free-agent frenzy getting underway.