Panthers Not Sold On Choosing A Defensive Lineman With Top Pick

Despite a need at defensive tackle, the Panthers' decision-makers are not sold on the idea of drafting a D-lineman at No. 1, a pair of league sources said this week. As general manager Marty Hurney stated at the Senior Bowl in January, the Panthers want an impact player – and health issues surrounding a couple of the top defensive linemen have called into question how much of an impact they might make. So who do the Panthers take? They'll take long looks at the two players considered to be the top quarterbacks – Auburn's Cam Newton and Missouri's Blaine Gabbert. And though a cornerback has never gone No. 1, don't be surprised if LSU CB Patrick Peterson gets in the conversation.

Source: Charlotte Observer

 

Caaaaaaam

I'd laugh my butt off for a week if Gabbert went first

 

If Gabbert went first = You laugh your butt off

if Cam went first = Everyone else would laugh their butt off.

 

they need to get a D.linemen.

 

I'd laugh my butt off either way.

 

if they dont take Cam Neton ill be shocked. BUt I guess you gotta take there word on saying maybe select a defensive linemen

 

Bottom line is the Panthers need help from top-to-bottom.

If there's a rookie salary cap, there's a good chance to get a QB at a reasonable price now. You're not going to see Stafford or Bradford type money flying out any longer...the risk is still there, but it's not as high as it once was...

I'd love to see them take Peterson.

 

What they need most is a QB/ DT.

I think they take Daureus I really do.

 

I'm good with that

 

Just another team with the first pick trying to not show their hand.

 

Marcell Dareus has really gained momentum in the last month.....Warren Sapp comparisons being thrown out there.

And I'm sure he'll be a pretty good player but recent history isn't on his side.

The last defensive tackle taken No. 1 was Dan Wilkinson in 1994. Wilkinson was a decent player in the NFL, recording 56.5 career sacks but was never elected to the Pro Bowl or named to an All-Pro team.

Russell Maryland and Steve Emtman were also DT's that were selected No. 1 in the last 20 years that either underachieved and/or had injury issues.

My warnings are the same for Nick Fairley if he is still under consideration for the top pick. Unless you select "QB Killa" himself.....I would be cautious picking a DT with the top pick. The No. 1 pick should be a perennial Pro Bowler and an All-Pro.