Dynasty Football Fan

Let’s face it, Andrew Luck screwed the Carolina Panthers.  Well, actually it was probably a great decision by Luck as Jerry Richardson is a hard line owner that doesn’t pay premiums for anyone.  But Carolina is totally screwed.  there is no bonified #1 pick in this draft.

Cam Newton?  Not a chance, that would be a reach of epic proportions with his lack of pro offensive experience, he’s Tebow lite, and Tebow was lucky to be even picked in the first round last year.

Nick Fairley?  Possibly, but there are questions on both his size coming out of the combine and character in general.

Da’quan Bowers?  Now we’re talking.  While he wouldn’t be #1 in most year’s drafts, this year is different.  Ron Rivera is a defensive-minded coach and the Panthers did not have much of a pass rush last year after Julius Peppers left.  A real possibility here.

A.J. Jones?  I would have said this was a possibility pre-combine as Steve Smith isn’t getting any older and may not even be on the team next year.  But after Julio Jones scorched the track at the combine A.J. just doesn’t look that appealing as a top pick.  He may have more consistent hands, but Green and Jones are 1 and 1a and neither merit the top pick.

Marcell Darius?  Again, defensive minded coach, sizable SEC quality DT, this is a good possibility too.  It really depends on what Rivera thinks is his priority coming into the season, stuffing the run or the pass rush with Bowers.

After these guys there really are no #1 guys left.  Patrick Peterson?  When was the last time a CB was picked first?  Von Miller? Too small.  Blaine Gabbert?  See Cam Newton above.  Bottom line is that Carolina will most likely choose defense, which would be the best they can do in this draft, and hope to get a veteran QB to compete with Jimmy Clausen while he continues to develop into a possible future starter.