5 Marty Hurney draft picks who could be cut by the Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players drafted by former general manager Marty Hurney could be cut by the team in 2021?
For all Marty Hurney’s faults – and there were many – he knew what a first-round talent looked like during his second stint with the franchise. The former Carolina Panthers general manager struck gold with some notable selections early in the draft, with the likes of D.J. Moore, Brian Burns, and Derrick Brown set to shape the future of the organization for years to come.
However, this was a trait Hurney couldn’t seem to get the hang of later in the draft process.
The Panthers have plenty of competition for places this offseason – the first since Hurney was fired for a second time by team owner David Tepper. The appointment of Scott Fitterer from the Seattle Seahawks has brought a renewed sense of hope Carolina can make some real strides in the not-too-distant future – something that was clearly needed after a prolonged period of mediocrity.
Hurney wasn’t out of work long, joining the Washington Football Team‘s front office on the probable recommendation of Ron Rivera. But which draft picks made by the fired GM are in danger of being cut by the Panthers before the 2021 season gets underway?
Player No. 1
Stantley Thomas-Oliver III – Carolina Panthers CB
- 7th round pick (2020)
There wasn’t anything wrong with Stantley Thomas-Oliver III’s production during his rookie season aside from getting a route-running masterclass from Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings. However, some significant reinforcements made by the Panthers this offseason leave the cornerback fighting for his future in Carolina.
Thomas-Oliver could find himself buried on the depth chart after A.J. Bouye, Keith Taylor Jr., Rashaan Melvin, and No. 8 overall selection Jaycee Horn came into the fold this spring. How he responds to this substantial challenge at training camp will dictate whether the coaching staff takes him onto the roster for a second straight year.
Putting Thomas-Oliver on the practice squad is another option. But this would be a step back for the former Florida International star in Year 2 of his professional career.