Marquess Wilson and the NFL: Carolina Panthers
By Josh Davis
Carolina Panthers
January 1, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) puts on his helmet on the sidelines during their game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
A decent amount of receivers in Carolina and a really good group to boot, Carolina doesn’t really need a guy to step in and take reps in 2013. Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell, Dominik Hixon and Tedd Ginn highlight the group, but there are a couple of other options as well. Also factoring in is the fact that the Panthers only have five draft picks, with only three of those coming at times where Wilson will be considered a value.
The Perfect Storm:
Wilson could give quality insurance to Carolina for LaFell, who’s getting to be a known name and entering his contract year. Also, Steve Smith is still the marquee deep threat for the Panthers, which means Wilson could add extra value in the down-field game. It’s maybe a long shot, due to the Panthers’ incredibly depleted secondary needs, but what if Marquess drops to the fourth and Carolina has already taken care of their secondary and defensive tackle needs? Adding to the roster and weapons’ market for Cam Newton could become pretty intriguing.
Likelihood of Getting Drafted by Panthers:
C+ (Just like for all these teams, if Marquess drops down he gives value as a potentially high quality steal. Add the financial benefit for Carolina beyond 2013 and it could very well happen)