2021 NFL Draft: Carolina Panthers 7-round mock
Scouting Report. Offensive tackle. player. 87. Pick Analysis. Michigan. Jalen Mayfield. 73
Taylor Moton is headed for free agency and the Panthers desperately want to retain him via either the franchise tag or a long-term deal. Even if he does return, Carolina still needs to upgrade their options at offensive tackle. Grabbing Mayfield in Round 3 would do just that.
Mayfield’s positional future in the NFL isn’t completely clear. At least initially, he projects to be a much better option at right tackle than he would be on the left. That might tempt the Panthers to go in a different direction if they don’t feel like they can retain Russell Okung.
Overthinking Mayfield as a prospect would be a mistake. He’s got quality size and mobility for the tackle position. He’s got every physical quality NFL coaches want from a starting offensive lineman. His inexperience might hinder his ability to start Week 1 in Carolina, but he could easily turn into an above-average starter sometime during his rookie campaign.
The Panthers need to invest draft equity in upgrading their pass protection in this draft. Mayfield may not be an elite prospect, but he’s a steal in the third round.