2012 Carolina Panthers Seven Round Mock Draft
1. First Round, 9th overall: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
This might not be the first time it’s been suggested, but it’d be a pretty big surprise pick if the Panthers pulled this off. Cox is a very gifted athlete and would be a good fit for Carolina, who has a need at the defensive tackle position. He has quite a bit of pass rush upside and depending on what happens in front of Carolina, I think he is arguably the best DT on the board at this point. You could look at LSU’s Michael Brockers or UNC defensive end Quinton Coples for this pick as well.
2. Second Round, 40th overall: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
Jenkins has some character flaws and that could easily push him to the 2nd round, where as before he was considered a lock first round talent. I think he still has that talent, but there are so many questions surounding him at this point, it wouldn’t shock me one bit to see him last to this point. If he does, he’d be a great fit in Carolina, where the Panthers could definitely use an upgrade at this position. I think he could be a starter from day one.
3. Fourth Round, 104th overall: Brandon Brooks, OL, Miami (OH)
Big, strong offensive lineman who tested off the charts at his pro day and at 6’5″ 345 pounds, he is just a mauler. I think he could play either guard position or possibly even right tackle with his athletic ability. The team needs to replace Travelle Wharton, and in the fourth round, getting a guy like Brooks would be excellent value.
4. Fifth Round, 145th overall: Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami (FL)
The Panthers need more size and speed at the receiver position, and Streeter provides that in spades. He is a big, athletic receiver prospect capable of breaking off a big play at any time. He is a huge mismatch down the field and could be a great fit for Cam Newton, who can really sling the ball down the field.
5. Sixth Round, 180th overall: Tank Carder, LB, TCU
Carder isn’t a flashy prospect, but he was a tackling machine at TCU and could be a very good value in the sixth round if he should wind up lasting this long.
6. Sixth Round, 207th overall: Ron Brooks, CB, LSU
Brooks is a guy with a ton of speed and versatility. Could easily be a top special teamer from the moment he gets onto the field, and a good player to take a risk on at this point in the draft.
7. Seventh Round, 216th overall: Gerrell Robinson, WR, Arizona State
Big receiver with decent athletic ability and can get open underneath. Not great speed, but he’s got the tools to develop into a good complimentary receiver.