With The First Pick
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Panthers 2021 NFL Draft primer as they build around Sam Darnold

By Geoffrey Godfrey

ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: Sam Darnold #14 of the New York Jets during a game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Jets beat the Bills 13 to 6. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: Sam Darnold #14 of the New York Jets during a game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Jets beat the Bills 13 to 6. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /
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Panthers
Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

The Panthers still have several holes to fill after free agency

The biggest need they still have and have failed to address is offensive tackle, which is not super exciting for a team with a new quarterback. The defensive side of the ball signed bodies more so than upgrades for the most part in free agency. The upgrades at guard have filled that need, and should keep Christian McCaffrey healthy with better running lanes.

Current Panthers needs: Offensive tackle, tight end, linebacker, cornerback, safety, and defensive tackle

While wide receiver was not the main need it is an need as well. The duo of Robby Anderson and Moore are formidable, but you will need more than just two wide receivers. There is also a lack of overall depth on both offensive and defensive lines for the Panthers, and need to continue injecting youth into both of them. There is also a need a running back depth, McCaffrey has shown he can be injured, and his great back-up last year is gone. In the modern-day NFL, teams need three to four running backs.

I would not overlook them targeting depth at linebacker in the draft and post-draft with leftover free agents. If they can fix up all the missing depth, mixed with the youth of their stars the Panthers could be in for a nice next five-eight years.

They have been doing well in drafts recently, and I would look for that trend to continue. However, they may go need over the best player early in the draft.

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