2019 NFL Draft: 5 players Panthers could take in Round 1

1. Jonah Williams

The only need the Panthers have that’s bigger than edge rusher is at offensive tackle. Protecting Cam Newton has to be a huge priority for this team in 2019. The team isn’t going anywhere without a healthy franchise quarterback.

Some scouts have questions about whether or not Williams is athletic enough to stay on the outside at the next level, but he looks like a guy who can be an above average right tackle. At worst, Williams can kick inside to play guard and become a really good player there.

Fortunately for the Panthers, they can use help at both spots. Re-signing Williams was a good move by Hurney, but it’s only a one-year deal. If he plays well he could easily rise outside the team’s price range next summer. Acquiring a replacement one year early would be a savvy business move for the Panthers.

There’s also an immediate opportunity for Carolina to upgrade their options at left guard. Greg Van Roten was really durable last year, but he didn’t play particularly well. It’s even possible the Panthers might choose to play Williams at guard during his rookie season before kicking him outside in year two.

Drafting Williams wouldn’t be a sexy move for the Panthers, but it would be a solid investment in protecting Newton. That’s a solid use of resources by the team.