Panthers 2021 Draft: 7-round mock after first week of free agency
By Dean Jones
Round No. 6 (Pick No. 192)
Tommy Kraemer – OG (Notre Dame)
Although the Carolina Panthers picked up Pat Elfelin and Cam Erving in free agency, it would be a huge surprise if either player emerged as a consistent starter. This is a deep class for offensive linemen and the organization should take advantage of this by selecting a potential plug-and-play starter in the later rounds such as Tommy Kraemer.
The Notre Dame force has been a solid contributor for the Fighting Irish and this experience in such a prestigious program will serve him well in pursuit of making a name for himself in a professional environment.
Round No. 6 (Pick No. 220)
Tre’ McKitty – TE (Georgia)
Getting more notable production from the tight end position is absolutely essential if Carolina wants to take a step forward next season. Bringing in veteran Dan Arnold should help given his familiarity with the scheme and if they could also draft a physical, athletic presence such as Tre’ McKitty, it is sure to make all the difference.
The Panthers got the chance to see what McKitty could do for themselves during practice at the 2021 Senior Bowl, with the prospect demonstrating eye-catching route running and exceptional hands that make him a steal at this stage of the draft.
Round No. 6 (Pick No. 224)
Tony Fields – LB (West Virginia)
The addition of Denzel Perryman gives the Panthers some outstanding options at the second level. This positional group did improve once Tahir Whitehead was sent to the sidelines down the stretch and if the free-agent signing hits the ground running, it could be the most important defensive signing Carolina makes this offseason.
Tony Fields seems to compliment what the Panthers are attempting to mold from a defensive standpoint. He is athletic, versatile, and possesses the necessary instincts to make a contribution if given time to develop.
Round No. 7 (Pick No. 241)
Gary Brightwell – RB (Arizona)
It might be worth the Panthers taking a flyer on a late-round running back to put behind All-Pro Christian McCaffrey following his frustrating 2020 campaign due to injury. Although Gary Brightwell didn’t have the best of seasons at Arizona last season, he certainly looked the part at his pro day and is worth taking a chance on here.
With that being said, Brightwell averaged 5.9 and 5.8 yards-per-carry in his two seasons prior to 2020. Whether he can take the necessary steps forward in the NFL remains to be seen. But the Panthers have nothing to lose by taking him here.