NFL mock draft 2017: Quarterbacks dominate first round

Nobody believed the Carolina Panthers would be in this spot. After going 15-1 and losing to the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50, the expectation was a return to the postseason. Instead, Carolina struggled to a miserable 6-10 record. The silver lining? Carolina has a chance to land another cornerstone for a young roster. The Panthers have some pronounced needs including corner and offensive tackle, but neither of those positions have a player worthy of this spot with Marshon Lattimore off the board.

With Jonathan Stewart aging, general manager David Gettleman could add the dynamic Christian McCaffrey to the backfield. McCaffrey, son of former NFL receiver Ed, was a star at Stanford over his three seasons. Over the past two years, McCaffrey rushed for 21 touchdowns while adding another eight as a receiver. McCaffrey also fits the bill as a return man, taking over for the departed Ted Ginn Jr. McCaffrey should rotate in with Stewart initially, but see plenty of snaps both in the backfield and as a slot receiver. Considering the style Carolina plays, McCaffrey is a perfect fit alongside Cam Newton in the read-option.