2020 NFL Draft: Patriots find a QB of the future in two-round mock draft

The Carolina Panthers haven’t had this many question marks on their roster in a very long time. Carolina hit rock bottom this season with former MVP quarterback Cam Newton missing the majority of the season due to injury and former NFL Coach of the Year Ron Rivera being let go before season’s end.

While the Panthers, led by All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey, showed signs of competitiveness and electricity, their lack of consistency handed them a top ten pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. What weakness do they decide to address with that pick? Anybody’s guess. But I would say that if a player that can pave the way for McCaffrey and can protect Cam Newton (or another quarterback that they decide to bring in) is on the board that is where they should go.

Andrew Thomas is that guy in this draft. No lineman in this class is as dominant in the run game while remaining versatile in the passing game as Thomas. As a run blocker, Thomas is a mauler that is a force to be reckoned with by the defense. His brute strength, long arms and physicality allow him to dominate any defensive player. Thomas opened holes for one of the best running offenses in the country at Georgia and would be able to do the same at the next level right away.

As a left tackle, Thomas leaves a little to be desired as a pass blocker, but he usually finds a way to get the job done. He isn’t the fleetest of foot and can be exposed by some of the best speed rushers in the game, but as long as he is able to get his hands on you, good luck getting away. Jake Fromm was one of the least sacked quarterbacks in the nation with Thomas protecting his blindside, and in a similar run-heavy, quick-hitting offense, Thomas should thrive with Carolina.

Under new head coach Matt Rhule and offensive coordinator Joe Brady, the offense may look a little different, but nonetheless the basic principles should remain the same and a fiery competitor like Thomas will find a way to make an impact play in and play out. The Panthers will need to address a handful of other holes in their roster if they want to compete for a playoff spot, but securing a solid left tackle like Thomas is never a bad way to start.