Kenny Pickett enhances Panthers’ dilemma after outstanding pro day

A fantastic showcase from Kenny Pickett at his pro day has given the Carolina Panthers plenty to think about regarding their future at quarterback.

The Carolina Panthers have themselves a dilemma on their hands surrounding what exactly to do with the No. 6 overall selection. This is their only pick in the top-100 as it stands, so general manager Scott Fitterer might consider trading back for more capital, taking an elite offensive lineman, or implementing the ‘best player available’ mentality the front office figure stated is his preferred method of operating.

There aren’t many major holes on the Panthers roster as it stands. Recruitment has been encouraging during free agency, so if a veteran left tackle and solid pass-rusher can be sought before the 2022 NFL Draft, it leaves the door open to potentially reach for a quarterback after Sam Darnold failed to make the most out of a massive opportunity following his high-profile trade from the New York Jets.

One player that’s been linked heavily to the Panthers throughout the evaluation process is Kenny Pickett, who emerged from nowhere to put together an exceptional campaign for Pittsburgh that saw his draft stock go through the roof in the process.

Pickett is an intriguing character that does have some flaws, but the connections to Carolina are obvious. He was recruited by Matt Rhule at Temple before choosing a different program and Fitterer has been hugely complimentary of the signal-caller on multiple occasions this offseason.

Although Malik Willis is generating more hype, Pickett has put together a decent assessment period at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. There are some obvious concerns about his hand size and just why it took him so long to come of age in college, but the weather in Pittsburgh is cold, and not every player develops the same when it’s all said and done.

Pickett can do no more after completing his pro day with another outstanding demonstration of what he can bring to an NFL franchise. Carolina’s brass was in full attendance, as expected, which only heightened the rumors that he will be the guy they end up taking at No. 6 overall.

Whether this would be a reach for Pickett or not is a moot point. If the Panthers are convinced this can be the franchise quarterback they’ve been looking for since releasing Cam Newton the first time around, then those in power would be wise to have the courage of their convictions and pull the trigger.

Besides, if Pickett does end up being a success, then nobody will remember or care that the Panthers “reached” to secure him in the top-10.

Carolina has been aggressive in free agency when it comes to strengthening the offensive line. Pickett might not be ready to start right from the outset, but he’d be in a fantastic position to make his presence felt when called upon providing a premium blindside protector is acquired before then.

It’s a nice problem to have. And outside of the Detroit Lions at No. 2, there doesn’t appear to be anybody ahead of Carolina that is going to take a quarterback.

The Panthers could have got Justin Fields or Mac Jones last season. This is also likely to be Matt Rhule’s final chance to draft a quarterback unless he goes down the trade route in a bid to cool off his hot seat next season.

They are clearly enamored with Pickett. Although it would be divisive, don’t be surprised if this is the name called at No. 6 when the all-important time comes.