With The First Pick
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2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

By Maxwell Ogden

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Offensive Guard. UTEP Miners. Will Hernandez. 24. player. 87.

The Carolina Panthers have lost star guard Andrew Norwell to the Jacksonville Jaguars via free agency. It could prove to be a devastating loss for a Panthers team that relies quite heavily on its ability to run the ball.

Thankfully for Carolina, UTEP Miners offensive guard Will Hernandez is available at No. 24 and could prove to be an instant fix for an offense in need.

Hernandez has all of the tools to become one of the better guards in the NFL. He’s built with a wide base and broad shoulders, which he utilizes to overpower his opponents with a great push generated from his lower body.

Hernandez could face criticism for his short arms, but his combination of power and leverage is something that should help him overcome that issue.

Furthermore, Hernandez is an athletic blocker who can thrive as a pull guard at the next level. Based on how unpredictable Cam Newton can be when operating under center, the Panthers should be ecstatic to have a chance to make this selection.

There may be a desire to add a wide receiver at No. 24 overall, but after losing Norwell to free agency, Carolina must act swiftly to replace him.

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