Carolina Panthers avoid QB temptation in CBS Sports mock draft

Despite their need for a franchise quarterback, the Carolina Panthers avoided the temptation to take one at No. 6 overall in CBS Sports’ latest 2023 NFL mock draft.

It’s no secret that big changes are coming across the Carolina Panthers in 2023. This organization is starting from the bottom up after Matt Rhule’s pathetic reign as head coach and even though Steve Wilks is restoring pride, it could be a long road back to prominence unless the correct choices are made in the coming months.

With the prospect of Wilks getting the head coaching job long-term or someone else joining the ranks, one thing that cannot be disputed is Carolina’s need for a franchise quarterback. Someone that can inspire and provide the team with a rookie contract to build a contender.

The Panthers aren’t expected to have much financial wiggle room next spring despite accumulating a little flexibility by trading Christian McCaffrey and Robbie Anderson – two of the team’s highest earners in 2023. Therefore, examining the top signal-callers emerging from the college ranks is absolutely essential.

Carolina Panthers select Myles Murphy in CBS Sports 2023 NFL mock draft

Although this looks to be priority No. 1 for the Panthers, they have other needs. A subject that led to a shock pick for Carolina at No. 6 overall in a recent mock draft from Josh Edwards of CBS Sports.

With Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Will Levis all off the board, the writer projected the Panthers to take Myles Murphy, the phenomenal defensive end from Clemson to put alongside Brian Burns. This also breaks the streak of this organization never selecting a prospect from the college program despite their close proximity to one another.

"“It is difficult to envision Carolina staying put and not doing what is necessary to select a quarterback. With the perceived top-three options off the board, the Panthers move on to one of the top defensive talents.”"

This would be a controversial selection given how important the quarterback position is and how little success Carolina has found under center during Rhule’s era. But if they aren’t convinced by someone like Anthony Richardson at this stage, then the scenario cannot be ruled out entirely.

Murphy is an absolute beast coming off the edge and enjoyed a sensational college career with the Tigers. Something that’s further reflected in the 18.5 sacks and 36.5 tackles for loss achieved in three seasons as a starter.

There is a lot to like about the athleticism Murphy brings to the table. The motor is also exactly where it needs to be and his length makes him a surprising contributor against the run to further enhance the player’s credentials.

If Murphy can add a little more violence to his game and progress from a tackling standpoint, someone is going to have an exceptional prospect on their hands. But there is a situation emerging where the Panthers might not be picking in the top 10 at all if Wilks continues picking up positive results.

A lot of unknowns are in play here. Carolina’s needs are pretty clear, but it might just end up being a waiting game once the all-important assessment process concludes.

Murphy is a legitimate candidate and one that can fill the void left by Haason Reddick. Whether he’ll be available or not is another matter.