6 worst Carolina Panthers NFL Draft picks over the last decade
By Dean Jones
Will Grier – Carolina Panthers QB
- 3rd round (2019) – No. 100 overall
Taking Will Grier was a risk for the Carolina Panthers at the time, especially considering their needs elsewhere and the fact they already had Cam Newton under center. However, what’s transpired since then makes him one of their worst selections in recent memory through no real fault of his own.
Whether the former West Virginia star is a victim of circumstance or a simple draft bust is up for debate. Carolina threw him to the wolves in two starts as a rookie where he threw four interceptions and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that the new coaching staff doesn’t appear to be that keen on Grier’s talents if his lack of involvement in 2020 was any indication.
The acquisition of Sam Darnold from the New York Jets only decreases Grier’s chances of getting a bigger role anytime soon. He might still have a future in the game, but it is becoming increasingly unlikely that will be in Carolina.
Greg Little – Carolina Panthers OT
- 2nd round (2019) – No. 37 overall
Not only was Greg Little taken way ahead of where he was projected in 2019, the Panthers actually moved up to acquire him at No. 37 overall. Marty Hurney thought the organization could have similar success with a relatively overlooked prospect in the same manner the team achieved with Taylor Moton, but to say things haven’t worked out as expected would be something of an understatement.
Little was dismal at best during his rookie campaign. Much like Grier, the offensive tackle found opportunities at a premium as a sophomore with a staff that had no emotional attachment to him.
Injuries didn’t help his cause last season, of that there is no doubt. However, the size of the task awaiting Little in 2021 as he looks to turn his career around cannot be understated.