Colin Hoggard Goes Rogue
Round 1 (16) – TJ Hockenson, TE Iowa
It seems most likely the Panthers will be working with a short list of offensive tackles and edge rushers on the first night. If their short list runs out, one alternative would be the Iowa TE TJ Hockenson. Hockenson is well-rounded, both as a route runner and a run blocker and with Greg Olsen’s time limited, the Panthers may opt for a rookie who’s ready to go from day one, as Ian Thomas continues to develop. The addition of a second capable tight end would also help the Panthers protect Cam and make one of the Panthers ‘strengths stronger.’.
Round 2 (47) – Zach Allen, DE Boston College
With the Panthers defense looking to be more multiple, they add an end with the size and know-how to play in either front. Allen’s more effort than athleticism, but his versatility would be a welcome addition, occupying blockers while the linebackers swarm to the ball. Allen doesn’t answer the pass rush concern, but does help solidify the front.
Round 3 (77) – Nasir Adderley, S Delaware
The Panthers need a starting free safety. To have a reasonable chance at filling that hole in the draft, they will need to select one in the first two days. Adderley checks the turnover production box, with nine INTs over the last two seasons. While Adderley has the physical tools necessary to play centerfield, the Panthers may prefer a more instinctual player – where Adderley at times, is visibly hesitant.
Round 3 (100) – Bobby Evans, OT Oklahoma
The Panthers look to add some tackle competition for Taylor Moton and Daryl Williams on Day 2. Evans has experience at both tackle positions, but if he can get deep enough on Cam’s extended dropbacks will be an immediate question. Evans is a powerful player and was a three-year starter for the Sooners, playing left tackle after the departure of Orlando Brown.
Round 4 (115) – Jarrett Stidham, QB Auburn
You can’t have a Panthers mock draft and not have a quarterback, right? Stidham has the ability to run RPO looks and will make solid decisions at the line of scrimmage. Rather than taking a total flyer in the late rounds, the Panthers snag a proven SEC quarterback who has shown his ability to throw accurately from the pocket, with the athletic ability to make plays on the move as well.
Round 5 (154) – Justin Hollins, Edge Oregon
Having still not addressed the pass rush need for their multiple defense, the Panthers add a tall, light athlete to bend the edge. Hollins’ motor seems to run hot and cold, but he’s an uncommon athlete for a day 3 pick and at a spot the Panthers could afford to roll the dice.
Round 6 (187) – Mark Fields, CB Clemson
Fields, a Charlotte native and son of the former Panther by the same name, never fulfilled his potential at Clemson due to injuries. Fields has the physical tools and may be worth the risk to add more speed to the defensive backfield. If he can stay on the field, he has a chance to succeed.
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