The topic of conversation all weekend was getting Bryce Young enough offensive help.
And with nearly every selection, Dan Morgan and Dave Canales proved that is the vantage point with which they were operating.
Let’s review and grade the Panthers’ seven selections over the weekend.
First round, 32nd overall: Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
Carolina’s interest in Legette was apparent for weeks leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft. Both Morgan and Canales liked Legette enough to make sure the Panthers trade into the first round to ensure the team has his fifth-year option if he works out as a go-to receiver. Though Legette’s college experience is limited, he has all the tools to become an elite receiver at the NFL level.
Grade: B+
Second-round, 46th overall: Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas
In the lead-up to the draft, Canales talked extensively about wanting to rebuild the Panthers’ running game. Selecting Brooks was a clear admission of that goal. The Panthers landed Young a passing-game weapon in the first and a running-game weapon in the second. The question now becomes how Brooks fits in with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders.
Grade: B-
Third-round, 72nd overall: Trevin Wallace, LB, Kentucky
Wallace is a physically imposing linebacker. He is athletic and appears pegged to be the successor to Shaq Thompson eventually. He is far from a pro product immediately, but if his game grows into his athletic attributes, nabbing him in the third round was a great value pick.
Grade: C+
Fourth-round, 101st overall: Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Sanders is another passing game weapon for Young heading into the quarterback’s second season. He will complement the stable of pass-blocking tight ends currently on the roster. For Sanders to be available on Day 3 of the draft was an incredible feat. His selection looks like the best value out of any pick made on Saturday.
Grade: A
