Panthers 7-round 2023 mock draft: Life after Christian McCaffrey
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers select Justin Flowe
- Linebacker | Oregon
Big changes could be coming to the linebacker corps in 2023. The Carolina Panthers have decisions to make about Damien Wilson and Cory Littleton, with Shaq Thompson’s extortionate salary-cap number in the final year of his deal likely to come with a trade of release next spring.
Much will depend on how Carolina sees fourth-rounder Brandon Smith, who’s been seldom seen on the defensive rotation over the first half of 2022. Regardless, the Panthers should look at the next batch of college prospects entering the league, and thanks to their trade for Christian McCaffrey, they have the capital to potentially acquire one or two players that can provide an immediate impact.
Someone like Justin Flowe has enough momentum to enter consideration for this spot. The Oregon standout has formed an exceptional partnership with Noah Sewell, giving the Ducks a supreme tandem that should both thrive in the pros.
Flowe fits the athletic mold of players drafted under general manager Scott Fitterer. He is physical enough to enforce matters against the run and excels in coverage, which is exactly where the Panthers struggle in key situations.
If there was a knock on Flowe, it’s an inconsistency finishing off plays. However, this should progress over time.
Providing his transition goes smoothly, this is a Day 1 starter with significant upside.