Panthers 2021 Draft: 7-round mock after first week of free agency

Round No. 2 (Pick No. 39)

Samuel Cosmi – OT (Texas)

Now that the Carolina Panthers have their quarterback locked in, they need to find a solution to their left tackle problem. It doesn’t appear as if Russell Okung is coming back – which is fine considering how unreliable the Pro Bowler was due to injury. But the additions of Cam Erving and Pat Elflein are not going to strengthen protection much if recent form is anything to go by.

Getting a talented young prospect via the 2021 NFL Draft is the smart way to go and Samuel Cosmi represents some tremendous value in this spot. There is a chance the Texas edge protector goes late in the first round, but time and time again prospects who are given these sorts of grades drop depending on what transpires in front of them.

Cosmi is a hugely competitive individual who has plenty of useful starting experience under his belt. The player is quick-footed and has the right sort of length to make a smooth transition to the next level.

Providing the tackle works on the technical aspect of his game in the pros, then he could potentially become a starting left tackle with some additional progress. Carolina has the option of moving Taylor Moton from the right-hand side in this scenario, which would take some of the heat off during the early stages of Cosmi’s development.