Panthers 7-round mock 2021 NFL Draft using best player available
By Dean Jones
Round No. 4 (Pick No. 113)
Jamar Johnson – S (Indiana)
Hybrid safeties are all the rage in today’s NFL. The Carolina Panthers got a significant amount of production out of Jeremy Chinn when they traded back into the second round in 2020 in order to take the former Southern Illinois standout at No. 64, so they might cast their eye on Jamar Johnson in the hope he can make a similar impression.
The Indiana product can play on the backend, has no trouble coming down to the second level and assist in run support, and also has the sort of athleticism to cover from the slot if needed. This versatility is a big-time asset to call upon and something the Panthers would be wise to take a look at here given how much Juston Burris struggled in 2020.
There is also the release of Tre Boston to consider. The safety might have been lackluster overall last season, but he is a big presence on and off the field that needs to be replaced in some form.
Round No. 5 (Pick No. 151)
Kendrick Green -OG (Illinois)
Although the Panthers signed Pat Elflein and Cam Erving in free agency, it would be a big surprise if they managed to provide consistent protection considering their output over the last two seasons. This is a deep class for offensive linemen across the board and Kendrick Green is the best of the bunch at this juncture.
The formidable presence on Illinois’ interior transitioned well from a defensive tackle in college and can play at center or as a guard with equal effect. Green might be seen as a little under-developed, but that is more down to his inexperience rather than the talent at his disposal.