Final 7-round Panthers 2021 mock draft after Teddy Bridgewater trade
By Dean Jones
Round No. 1 (Pick No. 8)
Justin Fields – QB (Ohio State)
The Carolina Panthers shock the world by selecting Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields at No. 8 overall and there is a big possibility they will go in this direction. ESPN analyst Todd McShay recently stated that the organization was serious about pulling the trigger on the signal-caller, who has been picked apart more than any other college player throughout the assessment process.
This has been staggering to see, especially considering the level of production Fields managed to come up with during his time with the Buckeyes. People have quickly forgotten he outplayed consensus No. 1 overall selection Trevor Lawrence in the college football playoffs despite getting hurt, with his efforts over the last two years more than enough to warrant consideration at No. 2.
Zach Wilson has the upside, Mac Jones is a national champion, and Trey Lance is a wildcard having taken less than 350 reps in college. Fields has done it all and has all the tools needed to thrive at the next level and although the Panthers traded for Sam Darnold, they haven’t picked up his fifth-year option yet and there is just no telling whether he can start living up to his potential.
Carolina’s quarterback room now consists of Darnold, Will Grier, and P.J. Walker after Teddy Bridgewater was traded. If Fields is on the board when they are on the clock, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them pull the trigger.