Realistic targets for every Carolina Panthers draft pick in 2021

Thomas Fletcher – Carolina Panthers LS

• Round No. 6 (Pick No. 222)
• 2021 role – Potential starter after training camp battle

There were more than a few eyebrows raised when the Carolina Panthers selected a long-snapper in the sixth round. Nine more so than Thomas Fletcher himself, who thought head coach Matt Rhule was calling to give him an undrafted free-agent offer.

Fletcher will get the chance to compete with J.J. Jansen for the starting job in 2021. The Panthers’ longest-serving player has no guaranteed money on his deal and if the Alabama product shows enough promise, it might see Carolina part ways with the veteran in favor of the rookie.

Shi Smith – Carolina Panthers WR

• Round No. 6 (Pick No. 204)
• 2021 role – Rotational receiver/special teams returner

There is a lot to like about Shi Smith. He is a big play waiting to happen and isn’t shy in making his thoughts and feeling shown on the field with a fierce competitive streak that is in keeping with what the Panthers have across their roster.

Carolina is loaded at the wide receiver position, so expect to see Smith come into the rotation from the slot and potentially out of the backfield should the opportunity arise. He could also see some time as a kick returner as a rookie thanks to his elusiveness.

Deonte Brown – Carolina Panthers OG

• Round No. 6 (Pick No. 193)
• 2021 role – Starting guard

Getting Deonte Brown on board so late in the draft was a shrewd bit of business by the Panthers. There are some weight concerns to consider and his fall also came about following off-the-field incidents at Alabama. But the coaching staff appear confident these are now behind him and got to be around the player for themselves during their time at the 2021 Senior Bowl.

Brown is exactly what Carolina is looking for on their interior. He is a commanding force on running downs and didn’t give up a single sack from 916 pass-blocking plays with the Crimson Tide. This might all change when he gets to the next level, but it’s hard to envisage a situation where he isn’t starting next season.