Panthers Draft Picks: Adding Grit and Talent to the Roster
The Carolina Panthers made a series of trades during the NFL draft, highlighting their commitment to finding players who embody the team’s “dawg mentality.” One of the standout picks was third-round selection Trevin Wallace, a linebacker from Kentucky. Despite flying under the pre-draft radar, Wallace’s athleticism and potential impressed the Panthers’ general manager, Dan Morgan. His ability to run sideline to sideline and deliver punishing hits is expected to bring a physical and aggressive tone to the Panthers’ defense. Losing key players like Brian Burns and Frankie Luvu in the offseason meant that the team needed players who could step up and fill the void. Wallace’s description of a “dawg mentality” as being fearless and willing to hurt opponents resonated with the Panthers’ coaching staff.
While other linebackers may have had more college production, Wallace’s combination of traits and spunk made him a standout on the Panthers’ draft board. In his final season at Kentucky, he recorded 80 tackles and 5 1/2 sacks, impressive numbers for an off-the-ball linebacker. Additionally, his impressive performance at the combine, running a 4.51-second 40-yard dash and jumping 37 1/2 inches, solidified his potential as a top-tier linebacker.
Wallace is projected to be the eventual successor to Shaq Thompson, but he also has the potential to fill the versatile role left by Frankie Luvu. His determination to get to the ballcarrier, regardless of how long the play lasts, demonstrates his relentless pursuit of excellence. Growing up with a coach for a father and a mother who instilled a strong work ethic, Wallace developed a take-no-prisoners approach to the game.
The Panthers’ draft strategy also involved addressing their running back position. After trading back and then moving back up in the second round, they selected Jonathon Brooks from Texas with the 46th pick. Brooks’ journey to the NFL has been marked by perseverance and determination. Despite sitting behind other talented running backs for two years, he used that time to transform his physique and improve his game. Last season, Brooks had an impressive six 100-yard rushing games before tearing his ACL.
The Panthers’ coaching staff conducted thorough research on Brooks’ health and believe he is progressing well in his recovery. Brooks himself expressed confidence in his rehabilitation process and expects to be ready for training camp in July. Once healthy, he will bring versatility to the Panthers’ offense, with the ability to excel in traditional running plays as well as being a receiving threat in open space. Head coach Dave Canales is excited about the possibilities that Brooks brings to their offensive system, highlighting his range and versatility as key attributes.
The fact that the first running back wasn’t selected until the 46th pick is indicative of the devaluation of the position in recent years. However, the Panthers didn’t let that influence their decision to draft Brooks. They value the run game and believe in the importance of having a strong running back on their roster. The addition of Brooks, along with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, has created a crowded running backs room, but one that is filled with talent and potential.
All in all, the Panthers’ draft picks demonstrate their commitment to building a team that embodies their desired “dawg mentality.” Players like Trevin Wallace and Jonathon Brooks bring a combination of skill, grit, and determination that will contribute to the team’s success. The Panthers are focused on developing these players and maximizing their potential as they work towards restoring pride in their logo and becoming a physical and competitive team in the NFL.