4 first-round prospects who would help Panthers QB Sam Darnold most
By Dean Jones
Rashawn Slater – OT (Northwestern)
One of the big talking points during the evaluation process is whether or not the Carolina Panthers are going to allocate their top pick on a franchise left tackle the team has been missing ever since Jordan Gross retired in 2013. This would no doubt be a massive boost to Sam Darnold’s chances, with the quarterback sacked an incredible 98 times in 38 games for the Jets and pressured on an astonishing 362 occasions.
Someone like Rashawn Slater could fit the bill if the Panthers opted to go in this direction. The Northwestern standout put some exceptional film together in 2019 – which included holding his own against NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Chase Young – so deciding not to participate in the 2020 campaign due to COVID-19 health concerns hasn’t impacted his stock whatsoever.
Slater has everything Carolina looks for in a new recruit under Matt Rhule. He is accomplished, versatile, and plays the game with a superb commitment that is sure to go down well with his new teammates wherever he ends up.
The tackle’s stock seems to be rising more than most, which is down to an exceptional pro day where his athleticism and undeniable strength were on full display. Slater comes into the NFL as a Day 1 starter on the blindside with a Pro Bowl ceiling and he could be the answer to Darnold and the Panthers’ prayers if he is still on the board at No. 8.