5 first-round prospects the Panthers should avoid after free-agent moves

Carolina Panthers should avoid Sauce Gardner

There appears little doubt that Sauce Gardner has a lot going for him. The Cincinnati product could be the next great shutdown cornerback in the making based not only on his college production but also on how the prospect’s draft stock has absolutely soared throughout the evaluation process.

Gardner does not lack any confidence. More importantly, he also backs this up with exceptional man coverage skills that could make him a top-five selection when it’s all said and done.

The Carolina Panthers might have had a slight need at the cornerback position with Stephon Gilmore and Donte Jackson out of contract. But the organization managed to lock up the former LSU standout and there is also the return of 2021 first-round pick Jaycee Horn to consider.

A cornerback room consisting of Horn, Jackson, C.J. Henderson, and Keith Taylor Jr. will be productive. Troy Pride Jr., Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, and Rashaan Melvin’s presence on the roster is also something to consider.

This makes it unlikely that the Panthers will target Gardner. Although general manager Scott Fitterer’s preference for taking the best player available means it cannot be ruled out despite the obvious need for reinforcements elsewhere.

Someone will be getting a stud in Gardner, there’s no doubt about that. But the Panthers have invested a lot in this particular unit over the last two years and they should look in a different direction.