Panthers roll with Teddy Bridgewater in full 7-round mock draft
By Dean Jones
Round No. 5 (Pick No. 148)
Cornell Powell – WR (Clemson)
The Carolina Panthers lost Curtis Samuel to the Washington Football Team in free agency, but they still have some notable weapons for Teddy Bridgewater to call upon. David Moore arrived from the Seattle Seahawks on a team-friendly deal, with undrafted free-agent Micah Simon also signing after excelling at BYU’s pro day catching passes from projected No. 2 selection Zach Wilson.
However, getting another prospect with a high ceiling represents good value here. Cornell Powell burst onto the scene at Clemson in 2020 despite being a relative afterthought throughout his college career, so if he can build on this momentum at the next level, it could see him become an instant contributor in Carolina.
Round No. 5 (Pick No. 151)
Jaylen Twyman – DT (Pittsburgh)
Releasing Zach Kerr and Kawann Short leaves the Carolina Panthers lacking depth at defensive tackle. They do have Bravvion Roy and three-technique Morgan Fox. But adding to the options alongside stud rookie Derrick Brown would be a wise move at some stage.
Jaylen Twyman is arguably the most underappreciated prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft. The Pittsburgh star is looking to follow in the footsteps of Aaron Donald and has a lot of the same traits in terms of creating havoc in opposing backfields.
If he can refine his run-stopping, he should be able to forge a productive career for himself thanks to a unique blend of explosiveness and raw power.
Round No. 5 (Pick No. 183)
James Wiggins – S (Cincinnati)
Even though it looks likely Jeremy Chinn will be moving back to safety from the second level in 2021, they could still use a dynamic weapon considering the inconsistent season put together by free-agent signing Juston Burris.
James Wiggins was one of the big winners from 2021 Senior Bowl week and represents a steal at this spot if he is still available. There is a knee problem that warrants further examination, but providing that works out, the prospect does have some potential.