Panthers' Mock Draft Shocker: Proctor Over Cooper?

0:00On April 17th, a fresh mock draft just dropped, shaking things up for the Carolina Panthers at Pick 19. Instead of the usual projection for Kenyans to Deek, its Alabama offensive tackle Caden Proctor heading their way, analysts like Tom Fonelli from CBS Sports see it as smart value, especially with hype around Proctor as a top tackle prospect. Earlier this week, for Nellie pointed to icky equinews batteller tendon rupture in the playoffs last season, leaving his return timeline unclear. That makes a tackle replacement, tempting, though it overlooks the Panthers' recent signing of Rashid Walker to handle left tackle duties. Fans and experts are buzzing because Carolina's offensive line needs long-term fixes. No left tackle locked in beyond this year, and Taylor Moten just has one more after that. But safety, wide receiver and tight end feel more urgent right now, along with spots like linebacker and corner. Grabbing Proctor skips Oregon's safety, Dylan Theanaman, and Indiana Whiteout, Omar Cooper Jr.

1:01The real play here? Panthers met with Cooper Jr. but not Proctor. He's blazing fast with a sub 4.540 yard dash, and could slot right in as WR3, boosting Bryce Young's game and Dave Canalis' scheme. Tackle help is coming eventually, no doubt, but not around one. Walker holds it down for now. Prioritizing a dynamic pass catcher like Cooper sets up that immediate spark for the offense.