4 prospects the Panthers hope fall to Round 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Kadarius Toney – WR (Florida)
Although the wide receiver position isn’t generally considered to be a pressing need for the Carolina Panthers heading into the NFL Draft, Scott Fitterer has repeatedly stated his desire to go with the best prospect available at any stage.
If Kadarius Toney was to drop into the second round and as far as No. 39, it might see them completely shift direction from their original plans.
Of all the prospects on this list, Toney’s chances of falling are the slimmest.
His career at Florida was littered with memorable highlights and if the Panthers were looking for someone to immediately come in and replace Curtis Samuel after he left for the Washington Football Team, then this is the ideal fit.
Toney can do so much will the ball in his hands. He is a big play waiting to happen and is incredibly elusive in tight windows or open space to boot.
This is further reflected in his outstanding numbers in 2020. Toney hauled in 70 receptions for 984 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in addition to taking 19 carries out of the backfield for 161 rushing yards and a score.
The similarities between Samuel and Toney coming out of college are there for all to see. Carolina would have a hard job looking the other way if he did slump to No. 39, but this doesn’t appear likely considering the buzz he’s generated during the assessment process.