5 studs the Panthers should monitor from Senior Bowl practice Day 1

Malik Willis – QB (Liberty)

There is little doubt Malik Willis is one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft class. The Liberty quarterback has a unique skill set that could see him emerge as a successful NFL starter with a little more refinement and he did nothing to dispel this notion with a sensational showing on Day 1 of Senior Bowl practice.

According to FanSided‘s national NFL reporter Matt Verderame, Willis had “far more velocity on his throws” than any other signal-caller on the field, later describing his arm as an “absolute cannon” en route to the prospect hitting the ground running.

Verderame did mention that Willis needs to take something off his throws at times. But this is something that can be easily coached out of the player and he is someone the Carolina Panthers might strongly consider if this trend continues throughout the evaluation process.

Although there are things like decision-making that need work, Willis has the ability to make plays out of nothing. He is mobile enough to gain yards on the ground with ease and can make almost every throw imaginable to further enhance his credentials.

This was an impressive start to life in Mobile for Willis. But what comes next for the player will be even more important and if he can pass some tough upcoming tests, then he is sure to be in high demand when the time comes.