4 prospects the Panthers might regret not drafting in 2021

Wyatt Davis – OL

Considering the need for additional help on their offensive line interior, it was something of a surprise to see the Carolina Panthers avoid drafting in this area until the later rounds. This might have been in their minds coming into the process – as they appeared to play the board well – but it does represent a gamble that may or may not come off.

One prospect the Panthers passed on twice in the third round was Wyatt Davis, a formidable guard out of Ohio State who was eventually taken by the Minnesota Vikings. He seemed to be a good scheme fit from the outside looking in, although considering Scott Fitterer’s reputation for finding late-round gems during his time with the Seattle Seahawks, his judgment should be trusted.

Davis also fills a problem area for the Vikings, who will need to improve their protection next season if they want to realistically enter the Super Bowl discussion. There is a lot riding on the campaign for the coaching staff and Kirk Cousins, who has two years remaining on his deal with Kellen Mond now waiting in the wings.

Carolina went with Deonte Brown in the sixth round, a mammoth guard from Alabama who might end up being a Day 1 starter if certain elements of his game can be worked out during OTAs and training camp.

If Brown doesn’t work out and others don’t make contributions, then passing on Davis will be seen as an opportunity missed.