Panthers draft: Examining 3 big narratives surrounding Sam Howell

Should the Carolina Panthers draft Sam Howell?

So what if the Carolina Panthers draft Sam Howell?

With the sixth overall pick in the draft and the Panthers’ desperate needs at offensive line, it would probably be a mistake for Carolina to take any quarterback. Even some of the most highly touted signal-callers can fall flat in their formative years if they don’t have good protection.

It’s not a coincidence that Mac Jones had the best offensive line and was the best performing rookie quarterback this past season. However, Howell’s stock is rising after a solid performance at the Senior Bowl, and who knows what could happen after the combine and pro days.

If the Carolina Panthers do select Howell via the sixth pick or later if they decide to trade back, they’ll at least be getting a stocky, tough, mobile player at the position that can make plays on the run and perform well off schedule.

Following the Senior Bowl, Pro Football Network’s Cam Mellor wrote:

"“Howell’s delivery is compact and among the best in this draft. He showcased an ability to read his keys and make snappy decisions. His arm strength was never in question, but he put that on display with terrific deep shots in places where only his receivers could grab them.”"

The former Tar Heel will need to improve his footwork in the pocket and learn how to call plays in the huddle, which is something he never had to do in college. Howell, who was not afraid of contact in college, will also need to learn to slide or get out of bounds to avoid taking a lot of hits and getting injured.

The final verdict? Howell is one of the best bets in this class and experts are starting to realize that his junior season could have very well been an anomaly.

If the Carolina Panthers select him, he’ll might ready to start Day 1 and already be beloved by the local community which is important for a fanbase looking for someone to put their arms around since losing local heroes like Luke Kuechly, Julius Peppers, and possibly Cam Newton.

However, the Panthers front office may have to pull off a very savvy trade to sell this pick to the fans and media. Passing on an offensive lineman with the sixth pick would be a tough pill to swallow, but trading back and perhaps getting picks in the second or third round may make taking Howell in the first round more justifiable.

At the end of the day, there are good and bad narratives attached to every prospect in every draft – remember what they said about Justin Herbert? But it’s up to scouts and front offices to cut through the noise and select the best player for their team and the player.

In this case, Howell can shut everyone up by performing on the field where it counts.