2018 NFL Mock Draft: Josh Rosen goes to Browns
By Brad Weiss
Martinas Rankin
Offensive Tackle, Mississippi State
The Carolina Panthers are back in the playoffs, and it only took one season for them to get back there. Two years ago, the Panthers represented the NFC in the Super Bowl, though they were beaten pretty badly by the Denver Broncos. Last season, the team had to deal with too many injuries, including to star quarterback Cam Newton, who suffered an injury to his throwing shoulder.
During the 2017 NFL Draft, the Panthers spent a pick on Christian McCaffrey, who has proven to be quite the player at the NFL level. Everybody knew he was a stud during his time at Stanford, but even his biggest supporters have to be shocked at how good he has been in year one. He has taken a lot of the pressure off of Newton on the offense, and with their first pick in 2018; the Panthers should look to add to the offensive line.
Martinas Rankin was an all-conference player this season for Mississippi State, and has seen himself turn into a first round prospect. He has incredible size, and while he may not stay on the left side at the next level, that does not mean he does not have the potential to be a Pro Bowl player. Mississippi State played some good football this season, and Rankin was a main reason why they nearly knocked off then-No. 1 Alabama during a matchup in November. Newton needs protection, and he can give it to him.