Round 1 (1st overall) QB Cam Newton- Auburn (6'5" 245lbs.)
If the Panthers could've picked a more polarizing guy, he would've worn pantsuits, demanded national healthcare, and competed in Presidential races. Much like Hillary Clinton, I hear mostly negative feedback from people. They always seem to be the loudest ones right? The only people I know who support the pick are named Rivera and Hurney. Well, you can throw my name in that hat, too. I can't help but imagine that Mike Shula (QB coach) is salivating at the prospect of working with this guy. He has all the tools and size needed to be a star in this league. He's played two college seasons and has two national championships. I am excited about the pick because I'm a fan, of course. But, I also can defend the Panthers gamble because of a few reasons.
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| Newton and Rivera share a moment |
Carolina is struggling to sell tickets. Why not draft a guy who could change your whole franchise?
With such a young franchise that's never seen a dominant quarterback, why not take the risk and potentially land a superstar? In a small market, you have to claw for attention of the national media and spotlight. Hell, it's possible the "icon and entertainer" comment could be intriguing for an owner struggling to keep his PSL owners happy.
With a number one overall pick, you don't play it safe.
In a year with no absolute number 1 choice, the Panthers had to gamble. In the past 10 drafts, eight QBs were selected 1st overall. Of those eight, only 3 are widely considered busts. Meanwhile, between the other 5 QBS they have six pro bowls, six playoff wins, and 1 Super Bowl ring. Two of them (Bradford and Stafford) are on their way to padding those numbers in the years to come. The other two picks (Jake Long and Mario Williams)? 2 pro bowls and ZERO playoff appearances. I don't care how good Marcel Dareus or Patrick Peterson will become, neither of them have the potential to improve the franchise like Newton does. I'll take those odds in Vegas all day! I think the Panthers felt the same way.
Round 3 (65th overall) DT Terrell McClain- South Florida (6'3" 297lbs.)
The Panthers addressed one of its most gaping holes with this pick. After the DT position was operated by a committee of guys last year, McClain has the potential to come in and be a starter immediately. One encouraging thing is that his 40 yd. dash time broke 5 seconds which is impressive for a 300 pounder snagged in the 3rd round. His presence should help sure up a defense that was 23rd against the rush last year.
Round 3 (97th overall) DT Sione Fua- Stanford (6'2" 308lbs.)
His natural position is nose tackle, which can't help but remind me of the new coaching staff that was just brought in. Although Rivera said that he will not run a 3-4 defense, he did mention that "elements of the defense will be used." Fua is the prototypical run-stuffing big guy that will disrupt the middle. He isn't an every-down player and tends to get gassed on long drives. He will most likely be used in run and goal line situations.
Round 4 (98th overall) CB Brandon Hogan- West Virginia (5'11" 170lbs.)
Carolina continues its draft gamble and selects a guy who has a history of legal troubles (as recent as early April 2011) and who is coming off a knee injury. Obviously they see a lot of potential that I'm not seeing. I found this pick a little bit of a reach. Apparently Hogan is a very talented, speedy corner. His knock is on his ball skills. I assume the Panthers anticipate him coming in and contributing on special teams and possibly as a returner, with which he has limited experience. Otherwise, I'm scratching my head on this pick. The Panthers hope he doesn't end up like the other DB from West Virginia
Round 5 (132nd overall) WR Kealoha Pilares- Hawaii (5'10" 200lbs)
Here's another guy coming off a knee injury this past season. The Panthers add to their already youthful WR corps. If Steve Smith leaves via trade as anticipated, Pilares will join 6 other players at the position with less than 4 years NFL experience. That's a little daunting seeing that we just drafted a rookie quarterback with the number one pick overall. But, the Panthers are high on the young guys as they began to show promise late last season. Pilares is a slot guy who isn't afraid to go over the middle. He has some speed and could see playing time this year depending on how good of a camp he has.
Round 6 (166th overall) LB Lawrence Wilson- Connecticut (6'1" 229lbs.)
A two-time All Big East selection, Wilson led his team in tackles the past two years. Ran an impressive 4.55 in the 40 yd. dash at his school's pro day. With speed like that, he fits in perfectly with his new LB teammates. He won't come in and compete for a starting job, but should be effective on special teams and nickel packages.
Round 6 (203rd overall) OL Zack Williams- Washington State (6'3" 309lbs.)
Played center last season but the Panthers will probably convert him to a guard. Is said to play with a mean streak which is a great compliment for an offensive lineman. The Panthers look to sure up OL depth. This is a project pick who will definitely take time to develop.
Round 7 (244th overall) OL Lee Ziemba- Auburn (6'5" 317lbs.)
They liked Cam so much that they brought along a bodyguard for him! This guy spent last year protecting Newton's blindside as the starting LT for Auburn. Great size and frame. He was a four year starter and captain for the Tigers. Leadership qualities are high and has experience at the top level. I like this pick and any time you can pick up a four year SEC starter in the 7th round, I say go for it. The Panthers hope he can some day develop into a solid starter for them.
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