Panthers: 3 options in first round of 2021 NFL Draft following Sam Darnold trade

2. Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

Carolina made moves to address the offensive line in free agency by bringing in left tackle Cameron Erving and guard Pat Elflein, but the trenches remain a clear area of concern for the Panthers, particularly on the interior.

Dennis Daley, a 2019 sixth-round pick, stands as the most likely starter at left guard, but Carolina could land a blue-chip prospect who could fill that spot or compete for a starting berth at tackle if Slater is still on the board at eight.

That Slater is being talked about as perhaps the first offensive lineman off the board ahead of Oregon’s Penei Sewell is testament to his athletic traits and his well-rounded skill set, which allows him to shut down pass rushers when he locks his hands-on and help create explosive plays in the run game by getting out in space to take on second-level defenders.

Seen by some as a better fit to play guard than tackle because of his arm length, Carolina could, therefore, be a perfect spot for Slater given their obvious need for an upgrade on the interior of the line. Spending such a high pick on a prospect to play guard may seem like a reach, but Slater has the upside to justify the price early in his career.