2012 Draft Options for the Carolina Panthers

After hitting a homerun with last years 1st overall pick, Cam Newton, the Panthers are on the right track in rebuilding their team.  Still, at 4-8 on the season, it's clear they still have a way to go.  Fortunately for them, Carolina will likely be looking at another top-10 pick.  In a draft filled with talent on both sides of the ball the Panthers should have no problem finding an impact player to help return the franchise to playoff contention.  Here's a look at a few of their top options:




1. Morris Claibourne, CB, LSU

With arguably their best defensive player, Chris Gamble, quickly aging, the Panthers will certainly look at drafting a cover-corner to improve their 21st ranked defense.  Claibourne certainly fits the bill, and given the recent success of top rookie cornerbacks, such as Arizona's Patrick Peterson, he's an interesting pick.  With top-flight ball skills, Claibourne would instantly help give the Panthers a respectable passing defense - especially while Gamble enters the last years of his prime.  Something that could make a world of difference given the Panthers have already lost 5 games by 7 or less points.

2. Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

With Justin Blackmon likely off the board by the time the Panthers pick, the next best receiving option may be Carolina's Alshon Jeffery.  Despite having a down year, Jeffery is as naturally talented as any receiver in the draft.  At 6'4'', 229, Alshon has the size and hands to be an elite wide receiver in the NFL.  Place him alongside Steve Smith (who currently tied with Calvin Johnson for 2nd in receiving yards), and Newton would have some serious weapons at his disposal.

3. Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

Despite the fact that Coples is another player who hasn't played up to his potential in 2011 his natural ability has earned him comparisons to former Panther great Julius Peppers.  If he can find a way to play up to his potential, Coples could easily become one of the top players to come out of this years draft.  With 24 career sacks, including 10 last season, he clearly has the ability to get to the quarterback, which is certainly something the Panthers could use.  Additionally, Coples is strong against the run.  He has high awareness and is able to quickly shed blocks and locate the ball... both of which would help improve the Panthers 27th ranked rush defense.


4. Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

After protecting Andrew Luck's blindside during his tenure at Stanford, Martin would be a welcome addition to a Panthers offensive line that has allowed 28 sacks and 53 quarterback hits in 2011.  While their first choice would likely be USC's Matt Kalil (who's brother Ryan is the Panthers starting Center), he will likely be gone by the time the Panthers pick.  Martin, however, is much more than a consolation prize.  At 6'6'', 304, he has starting tackle size to go with his elite talent.  With Pro-Bowler Jordan Gross at left tackle, the Panthers could start Martin on the right side and have two top-flight bookends to protect Newton and clear paths for Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams.  Given the fact that Martin is a better run blocker than pass blocker at this point, RT might be an ideal position for him.  While it may not be their most pressing need, building a strong offensive line is never a bad idea.