5 best fits for the Carolina Panthers on Day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Teven Jenkins – OT (Oklahoma State)
The Carolina Panthers have clearly made their bed with Sam Darnold and are going to give him a full chance without any quarterback controversy behind him. After acquiring their shutdown cornerback in Jaycee Horn at No. 8, the next thing on their hit list should be finding someone that can solidify the left tackle position for the foreseeable future.
Missing out on Penei Sewell by one pick was a blow. But they could get themselves a nice consolation prize in Teven Jenkins if he falls to No. 39 overall.
Some talented offensive linemen slid in the draft thanks in no small part to the run on offensive players early on. This means there is some real value to be had if the Panthers get lucky and Jenkins is somebody that fits the mold of what Matt Rhule is trying to build in Carolina.
Jenkins plays with ruthless aggression that is matched by solid hand placement and an ability to recover well when he doesn’t get the upper hand early on. He is projected to be a plug-and-play starter at the next level from Day 1 and if he was to end up on the Panthers, it would give them a solid bookend presence alongside stud right tackle Taylor Moton.
Darnold has the keys to the kingdom. But it will count for nothing if he cannot get enough time in the pocket.