6 exciting draft prospects the Carolina Panthers must consider on Day 3

Carolina Panthers could draft Cole Turner

• Tight End | Nevada

Finding a tight end a little lower down the pecking order is something else that could interest the Carolina Panthers if the right opportunity comes along. No prospect at the position was worthy of a first-round pick, but most analysts believe that many less-heralded individuals entering the league this year could end up surpassing their initial expectations.

Again, this would be about improving depth and having a contingency plan if Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble cannot make the necessary improvements in Ben McAdoo’s scheme. Cole Turner fits the bill after successfully making the transition from wide receiver to a tight end at Nevada with sensational results.

Turner quickly developed a strong relationship with Carson Strong, going over 600 receiving yards in each of his last two seasons and nothing 19 touchdowns during this span. His route-running is polished and caused endless problems at the college level, and previous experience as a wideout means there is a soft touch to his pass-catching across the middle or in the red zone.

There is also plenty of encouraging signs where Turner’s pass protection is concerned. Although the same cannot be said when it comes to his run blocking.

Once Turner develops further as a tight end, then this is a tremendous option to pick up late in the draft that could benefit the Panthers beyond 2022.