The Matt Rhule era in the Carolinas began earlier this offseason with free agency. This weekend, he’ll look to add more difference-makers to expedite the rebuilding process.
Tentatively, the own the seventh overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft. However, it would be a prudent decision to trade down so the team can accumulate multiple picks. The Panthers have several holes, chief among them defensive and offensive line, defensive back, and linebacker.
If the Panthers stay at No. 7, Isaiah Simmons, a hybrid defensive player from Clemson, and Derrick Brown, a defensive tackle from Auburn, are likely to be atop the team’s draft board. Cornerbacks Jeff Okudah (if he falls beyond his expected draft slot) from Ohio State and Florida’s CJ Henderson are also viable options for a defense that has numerous needs.
However, the Panthers are a likely candidate to trade back. There are numerous teams that are rumored to desire a better first-round pick. Carolina should seize the opportunity to accumulate assets if the value is there.
Rhule told Panthers.com, “Today is a great day. Marty [Hurney] said a great thing to me, we work 365 days a year to try to improve the team. Today is one of the big days that you notice that people talk about. A lot of work has gone into today and I know we’ll get a great player tonight.”
When asked about the new virtual draft format, Rhule commented, “I’m very comfortable with the technology. I think all of us across the country have adjusted to this ‘new normal’ we have right now. At the end of the day, all that matters is the name of the young person we put in to be a Carolina Panther.”
Rhule was asked about his goals for the weekend, responding, “We need some players on defense, just in terms of raw numbers. We want guys that are great athletes, that love the game of football, and that are great people.”
Rhule will have the chance to put his stamp on the Carolina Panthers through his first draft with the team, starting tonight at 8 pm.
Written by Greg Atkins
