Panthers 2021 draft: Trades galore in full 7-round mock draft

Round No. 5 (Pick No. 156)

Israel Mukuamu – CB (South Carolina)

Another trade down for the Carolina Panthers sees them pick up a couple of later-round picks from the Philadelphia Eagles, who made the move up to select wide receiver Dazz Newsome out of North Carolina and give Jalen Hurts another weapon to call upon.

The Panthers stay local with their fifth-round pick and select a gifted cornerback who has the size, length, and athleticism to make a real go of things at the next level. Israel Mukuamu is one of the tallest cornerbacks entering the next level this year and has the sort of versatility that Matt Rhule loves.

Mukuamu can line up on the outside, in the slot, or even on the backend should the opportunity arise. The South Carolina standout plays physical football that assists greatly in run support and providing the Panthers get a veteran presence to allow the player to develop at his own pace, this represents some tremendous value.

There is a slight technical problem where Mukuamu is concerned, which stems from his gangly frame that makes coping with fast-twitch wide receivers difficult. However, these can be worked out with some more refined coaching and it’s hard not to be impressed by his constant big-play prowess during his time with the Gamecocks.