Carolina Panthers Opt for Wide Receiver in First-Round Draft Pick. Since the onset of free agency, the Panthers have directed their efforts towards revitalizing their offense, providing Bryce Young with additional protection and offensive weapons.
The Panthers Finalize Wide Receiver Overhaul with First-Round Draft Selection
Diontae Johnson Trade
Following reinforcement of the interior offensive line, the Panthers executed a trade, parting with cornerback Donte Jackson and the 178th overall pick in exchange for Diontae Johnson and the 240th pick. In this trade, the Steelers acquired defensive tackle Logan Lee, while the Panthers obtained Michael Barrett.
Johnson is set to fill the role of the Panthers’ primary outside receiver, a position lacking depth in the 2023 season. Despite not achieving a 1,000-yard season since 2021, he showcased heightened efficiency in his latest season, averaging nearly 14 yards per reception. Furthermore, his catching consistency has notably improved, with only two drops recorded compared to an average of over 10 drops per season from 2020 to 2022.
Selection of Xavier Legette in the Draft
After relinquishing their 2023 first-round pick to secure Bryce Young, Panthers enthusiasts anticipated bypassing the first round of the NFL Draft.
However, Dan Morgan opted to engage in Day 1 proceedings, maneuvering up one spot with the Buffalo Bills to secure the last pick in the first round. With this move, the Panthers drafted Xavier Legette from South Carolina. How does this selection serve the Panthers’ interests?
Rationale Behind the Trade-Up
Initially, the decision to trade up one spot appears unconventional, especially for a receiver who likely would have been available at the 33rd pick. Nonetheless, advancing into the first round was pivotal in solidifying the team’s receiving corps for the foreseeable future.
This move grants the Panthers a fifth-year option with Legette, allowing for an extended period of retention if his development aligns with expectations. Additionally, it establishes a succession strategy for Adam Thielen’s eventual departure and potential loss of Johnson upon contract expiration.
Impact of Xavier Legette
Entering the NFL Draft as a fifth-year senior, Xavier Legette encountered disruptions in his collegiate career due to the pandemic and a motorcycle accident. Notably, he demonstrated significant offensive prowess in 2023, emerging as one of two SEC players averaging over 100 yards per game.
With an impressive 77.5-inch wingspan, Legette presents a substantial catch radius, positioning him as a prominent target for Bryce Young. His impressive 40-yard dash time of under 4.40 seconds underscores his ability to navigate downfield. According to PFF, he ranked as the seventh highest-graded receiver in this year’s draft class.
Legette also brings versatility, a coveted asset for the Panthers. While primarily lining up outside, he possesses the adaptability to operate from the slot and execute jet sweeps. Despite only one season as a collegiate starter, his developmental potential suggests an immediate impact on a Panthers squad craving dynamism.
Anticipate the Panthers’ offensive formations to prominently feature Johnson, Thielen, and Legette, leveraging Legette’s capability to stretch the field alongside Johnson and Thielen’s proficiency in intermediate areas.
