Free agent signings usually fill team needs and alter the mock draft projections as a result. We're seeing a bit of that for Carolina with 24th overall pick.
After cornerback Bashaud Breeland's failed physical and nullified contract, it makes sense to see Josh Jackson listed here (and it's safe to assume more corners will start to appear in future mock draft reports). The Iowa product is widely considered the corner prospect with the best ball skills – a trait Carolina desperately needs.
Guard Will Hernandez out of UTEP continues to be a popular choice to replace Andrew Norwell, who left for big money in Jacksonville.
The Panthers lost veteran tight end Ed Dickson to the Seahawks in free agency, so the Dallas Goedert projection is a logical one as Carolina continues to search for a No. 2 option behind Greg Olsen.
And while Julius Peppers excited all of Panther nation by deciding to come back for a 17th NFL season, this team needs to get younger at defensive end as it looks toward the future – hence the Sam Hubbard and Josh Sweat projections.
