2017 NFL Mock Draft: Creative Trades Dominate QB Position
By Erik Lambert
![Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/3233771163c6e49e971aa89bbfe12639b259b931556fcddf4f082e2ea33353d4.jpg)
8. Carolina Panthers
It was a big surprise that the Carolina Panthers shipped out Kony Ealy for what amounted to pennies. Either they were that desperate to find a taker or they really thought that little of his future with the team. Either way they’re are looking rather thin at the defensive end position, one quite vital to their scheme success. Charles Johnson is getting older and Mario Addison is primarily a situational pass rusher. They can’t afford to let that go unaddressed. <p>Taco Charlton might come as a slight surprise this high in the draft, but he shouldn’t. The Michigan defensive end really broke out in 2016, showcased his rare mix of athleticism, size and length. He moves well enough to play outside linebacker but showcases the kind of strength required of a 4-3 end. He’ll hold the edge against the run but move him around and turn him loose in the pass rush. There is much he is still unlocking in his potential.</p>. DE. Michigan. Taco Charlton . 8. player. 87