Panthers full 7-round mock draft after Sam Darnold trade

Round No. 6 (Pick No. 222)

Javian Hawkins – RB (Louisville)

Don’t let his 5-foot-9 size fool you, Javian Hawkins is a big play waiting to happen that has enjoyed some tremendous success during his college career at Louisville. He was almost unstoppable in 2019 on his way to 1,525 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, with his elite speed and elusiveness sure to go down well with whatever team drafts him.

The Carolina Panthers could use someone with Hawkins’ skill set to slot behind Christian McCaffrey, although the rigors of an every-down role might be out of the player’s reach initially thanks to his frame.

However, that should not put any teams off considering what he could offer in the right fit.

Round No. 6 (Pick No. 226)

Deommodore Lenoir – CB (Oregon)

The Carolina Panthers have reportedly met virtually with Deommodore Lenoir during the evaluation process and he makes a ton of sense here. He has the versatility to play on the outside or in the slot, with the secondary needing help in both areas after Corn Elder and Rasul Douglas hit free agency.

Lenoir might be a work in progress. But the skills are there providing there is not too much pressure on the Oregon prospect right away.

Round No. 7 (Pick No. 242)

Tristen Hoge – OG (BYU)

Carolina started this mock draft by picking up two standout offensive linemen with undoubted starting potential and they conclude their selections with another eye-catching blocking presence that might end up being a useful part of the rotation.

Tristan Hoge was part of BYU’s exceptional protection that gave Zach Wilson seemingly all day to do his thing on his way to becoming the No. 2 overall selection by the New York Jets unless there is a drastic change of heart over the next fortnight. While the standard of competition is going to substantially improve once he gets to the next level, there is definitely something to work with where the lineman is concerned.