Carolina Panthers pick No. 30
Kenyon Green – OL (Texas A&M)
It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers are really struggling to provide enough stability on their offensive line. This was a major concern heading into the campaign after some suspect free-agent signings and draft selections that weren’t exactly top tier, so this needs to be the team’s top priority during the offseason and the best way to strengthen on the cheap is by building through the draft.
Whether it’s Sam Darnold, Cam Newton, or someone else under center, they aren’t going to gain much in the way of success if the protection cannot be relied upon consistently.
Someone like Kenyon Green could be the answer to some of their problems. The commanding force has been a revelation for Texas A&M over the last two seasons, boasting experience both as a left tackle and on the interior.
Just where he’s best suited at the next level is up for debate. Green’s stout frame and ability to generate smooth running lanes could be an asset, with his aggressive approach to almost every down something else that won’t go unnoticed by NFL scouts.
There is a chance Green goes a lot higher than this depending on how the quarterback hype goes between now and when it’s time for teams to make their choices. Although this might be tempting for the Panthers, they should build from the inside out moving forward and this starts with their offensive line.
It’s not a sexy pick. But Green could be a prolific NFL starter right out of the gate.