5 prospects that could break the Panthers’ Clemson streak in 2023

Carolina Panthers could draft D.J. Uiagalelei

The Carolina Panthers took another major swing at the quarterback position with the acquisition of Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns. This provides them with a better opportunity to accumulate more wins in Year 3 of Matt Rhule’s reign, with third-round selection Matt Corral seen as a development project that could become the team’s long-term starter over time.

If Mayfield fluffs his lines and Corral cannot make the necessary improvements, then it might see the Panthers look to an exceptional group of quarterbacks entering the league next year. Although  D.J. Uiagalelei has some serious questions to answer, the Clemson product has been working hard throughout the offseason with a view to better fortunes this time around.

Uiagalelei was seen as a prospect of substantial interest after flashing promise in 2020. However, things did not go according to plan whatsoever last season en route to a 55.6 percent completion percentage for 2,246 passing yards, nine touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and a passer efficiency rating of 108.7.

The task awaiting Uiagalelei could not be steeper. But the signal-caller does have the option of staying in college for another year if he feels like it’s the right thing for his NFL future.

It’ll be easy for a quarterback like Uiagalelei to get lost in the hype regarding this year’s class. However, if he can become more consistent and improve areas such as footwork, then it might be enough for the Panthers and others to sit up and take notice.