Franchise Building Blocks: Carolina Panthers
By Jon Dove
The Carolina Panthers need to take a hard look at their roster during the offseason and figure out which players are part of the long-term future.
A year after making a Super Bowl appearance the Carolina Panthers are shocked to find themselves picking inside the top-10 of the 2017 NFL Draft. Despite their struggles this past season, the Panthers have enough talent to quickly right the ship.
Everything starts with Cam Newton who is still among the best players in the entire NFL. He’s a game changer who makes those around him better. However, the Panthers need to make an effort to surround him with more talent.
The offensive line has Trai Turner and Ryan Kalil as the anchors of the group. They are top-end talents who are considered major pieces to the puzzle. Michael Oher deserves some slack as he dealt with a lot of injuries this year. He’s someone Carolina could pencil in as a starter and expect improvements.
More from With the First Pick
- 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
- 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
- Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
- 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
- 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023
Since the Panthers are still in win-now mode, Greg Olsen should be considered a building block as someone capable of performing at a high level for a few more seasons. He’s the only pass catcher that really stands out.
Kelvin Benjamin is an effective player, but he’s sort of a one-trick pony who still has his issues with drops.
The defensive side of the ball has plenty of high-end talent that is also surrounded solid contributors. Luke Kuechly will be back from his concussion problems and is still one of the top defensive players in the league.
Thomas Davis is on the back end of his career, but still has some productive snaps to give. Davis could get some extra rest if the Panthers give Shaq Thompson some of his passing down snaps.
The interior of the defensive line is the strength of this team, but only if they are able to keep both Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short in the mix. Short is a pending free agent who is expected to command a big-money contract.
Carolina’s secondary needs a lot of work, but James Bradberry showed enough promise as a rookie to be seen a a franchise building block.
The Panthers will also have an opportunity to add an impact talent with the No. 8 pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.