Major trade with familiar faces in full 7-round Panthers 2021 mock draft

Round No. 2 (Pick No. 39)

Liam Eichenberg – OT (Notre Dame)

Now the Carolina Panthers have their long-term cornerback in place, the next thing on their to-do list is getting quarterback Sam Darnold better protection. Rashawn Slater or Penei Sewell would be primary candidates at No. 8 if they’re available, but there is plenty of value to be had throughout the draft from what is projected to be a deep class for offensive linemen.

Liam Eichenberg definitely fits the bill and could be a Day 1 starter at left tackle with a smooth adjustment to the next level. Notre Dame had a ferocious offensive line in 2020 who could all make their presence felt at the next level, with the Panthers’ pick here set to be the best of the bunch.

Left tackle has been a problem in Carolina ever since Jordan Gross retired in 2013. Eichenberg is a polished prospect that might just be able to solve this ongoing riddle.

Round No. 2 (Pick No. 51)

Landon Dickerson – OL (Alabama)

A second-straight offensive lineman is taken by the Panthers, which will be welcome for Darnold. Carolina did bring back John Miller and sign Cam Erving and Pat Elflein in free agency. But to say confidence is lacking in their ability to make an instant impression is something of an understatement.

Landon Dickerson represents exceptional value here. The interior protector projects as a starting center at the next level. But there is every chance he can occupy one of the guard positions until Matt Paradis becomes a free agent in 2022.

There was an injury concern regarding Dickerson following Alabama’s national championship win. But judging by the cartwheels he was doing at their pro day, it shouldn’t be much of a problem.