5 non-quarterback draft prospects the Panthers should target in 2023
By Dean Jones
All eyes are on the Carolina Panthers selecting a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft, but other positions also require significant attention.
It would be a major shock if the Carolina Panthers didn’t pick a quarterback with their first selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. A series of grave errors at football’s most important position caused Matt Rhule’s demise, so the new regime would be wise not to make the same mistake and especially if the organization is picking in the top five as anticipated.
Names like Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud will be constantly linked to the Panthers before the big night. Others such as Will Levis, Hendon Hooker, and Anthony Richardson could also come under consideration depending on who Carolina chooses as their next head coach.
While this rightfully takes the primary focus, those in power also have a large number of other needs. Money is tight, but the Panthers possess an abundance of draft picks to utilize after trading Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers.
On this topic, we picked out five non-quarterback draft prospects the Panthers should have their eye on ahead of the all-important assessment process.
Prospect No. 1
Carolina Panthers should target Felix Anudike-Uzomah
- Defensive End | Kansas State
Finding a pass-rusher is arguably Priority No. 2 for the Carolina Panthers in 2023. Their decision to let Haason Reddick walk in free agency backfired and Yetur Gross-Matos just isn’t up to the required standard from a starting role.
Someone like Felix Anudike-Uzomah fits the athletic mold normally associated with Scott Fitterer’s draft picks. His supreme physical traits and outstanding explosiveness look tailormade for the next level, even if he is a little rough around the edge in terms of development.
Anudike-Uzomah has some work to do before becoming a force. His discipline must improve and the edge rusher could also add more to his repertoire against experienced NFL offensive linemen.