5 first-round prospects the Panthers should avoid after free-agent moves
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers should avoid Devin Lloyd
Finding a long-term plan to replicate some of the production lost when Luke Kuechly’s announced his retirement was another substantial need for the Carolina Panthers. Jermaine Carter didn’t meet his objectives and joined the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency, leaving the organization moving forward with Damien Wilson and Cory Littleton – two experienced veterans who were signed off the market.
This could end up being a productive tandem. Their respective skills complement each other well and it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see a rotational approach depending on the situation next time around.
Carolina would be wise to potentially acquire another option to develop later in the draft. But taking someone like Devin Lloyd at the top end is out of the question despite his exceptional talent.
Lloyd enjoyed a standout college career at Utah. He is a Day 1 starter with Pro Bowl potential providing there is further development and someone the Panthers could probably do with, in all honesty.
However, the team is not rich in draft assets right now. So the need to take a franchise quarterback or left tackle has to take preference given what’s at stake for head coach Matt Rhule next time around.
As for Lloyd, he should be a top-15 selection. If he transitions smoothly, then the prospect will be among the leading contenders for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2022.