Panthers sure up linebacking core with MLB Ronald Yates

by Crimsion | 3 years ago | 1 Comments

Following an 11-6 campaign, the Carolina Panthers took to free agency to find some starting pieces along with some depth. Content with their core, head coach Jordan Charles knew the SFL draft was a key opporunity to build upon that. After moving out of the first-round, the Panthers found something they would need to trade back in, making a move with the Pittsburgh Steelers to obtain the 14th pick. Carolina's draft broke down as such.

Round 1 - Pick 14 - MLB - Ronald Yates - 6'2 - 227 lbs - Michigan

With Luke Kuechly out of the picture, the Carolina Panthers have needed to find their quarterback on defense. Finally in 2022 it looks like they've found their replacement in former Wolverine, Ronald Yates. Leading his team in tackles to close out the 2021 season, Yates posesses elite speed and Football IQ. He'll easily step in as the starting MLB once training camp opens up.

Round 2 - Pick 37 - RG - Kenny Foster - 6'2" - 319 lbs - Oklahoma State

The offensive line in Carolina has been a revolving door for some time now, however with the acquisition of OG Kenny Foster, things are looking up for the Panthers. Leading a stout Oklahoma State run game, the Panthers now find themselves with a solid piece to protect QB Sam Darnold and create space for HB Christiam McCaffrey. Yet another pick up here that will challenge for a starting role and likely has a leg up on the competition.

Round 3 - Pick 78 - HB - Nate Branson - 5'8" - 201 lbs - Vanderbilt

Although they have a solid cast of runningbacks in Christian McCaffrey and Chuba Hubbard, you can never have enough depth at this position. Carolina decided it was too much to pass up on a talent such as Branson here in the third round. The Vanerbilt product showed top-tier speed during the combine and his pro day, as well as showcased his solid route running throughout the season. Branson may challenge Hubbard early on in camp for the backup role to Carolina's star.

Round 3 - Pick 86 - LOLB - Tavon Greenwood - 5'11" - 230 lbs - Michigan

Outside linebacker was a position of need for Carolina as they only have three on the roster, taking Greenwood here solidifies that position and allows them to scheme for Ronald Yates' college teammate.

Round 4 - Pick 125 - DT - John Humphrey - 6'5" - 317 lbs - Virginia Tech 

Carolina found their centrepiece on the inside with Derrick Brown two years ago, the selection of John Humphrey gives the Panthers yet another young player to build upon in the trenches. The signing of Linval Joseph likely keeps Humphrey in a back up role, but there's nothing saying he can't make some strides this season and find himself some meaningful snaps.

Round 7 - Pick 214 - QB - Andrew Columbus - 6'1" - 222 lbs - Baylor

Besides Sam Darnold the Carolina Panthers did not have another Quarterback on their roster come draft day. To cap off their third day of drafting the Panthers selected QB Andrew Columbus. Coming out of Baylor, Columbus has played in a very pro-like system, but will still need to earn his keep during camp and the pre-season as the Panthers look to add some veteran talent at this position.