Where would Panthers 2020 class go in the 2021 NFL Draft?
By Dean Jones
Troy Pride Jr. – Carolina Panthers CB
- 2021 NFL Draft placing – 6th round
Although cornerback Troy Pride Jr. was projected to be a development project that could get better with more refinement, the jury is still out as to whether the former Notre Dame speedster can forge a successful career in the NFL. He went through some considerable struggles in 2020 – which is not uncommon for rookie corners – but what adjustments he can make ahead of his sophomore campaign will be pivotal to his chances moving forward.
The Carolina Panthers are relatively thin of options behind Donte Jackson. So there could be an opportunity for Pride Jr. to become more involved next season despite obvious reinforcements coming in between now and when competitive action rolls around in 2021.
However, considering how deep this draft class is expected to be for cornerbacks, someone with his sort of skill set would probably be a Day 3 pick.
Kenny Robinson – Carolina Panthers S
- 2021 NFL Draft placing – Undrafted
The selection of Kenny Robinson was something of a flier for the Panthers last season. His colorful route to the big leagues via a failed stint at West Virginia and a starring role in the XFL more than warranted a second look. But it’s clear he failed to do enough to be considered a viable long-term solution on the backend in Carolina.
Robinson was actually released during the 2020 campaign before being brought back onto the practice squad. He was given a one-year extension that gives him another chance to prove his worth in 2021, but it would be hard for a team to draft him now based on his inability to make previous experience in a professional set-up count for much.