Carolina Panthers: Top first-round 2021 NFL Draft targets

Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

The Carolina Panthers have put together a solid group of offensive playmakers, but there is certainly some room to grow. In particular, the Panthers lack impact talent at the tight end position and will have an opportunity to address the situation in the first round. Kyle Pitts is the best tight end prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft class and could quickly become a big-time playmaker at the next level.

Pitts is a big, fast and athletic prospect who is an absolute matchup nightmare at the tight end position. He is too fast for most linebackers to handle and too big for most defensive backs. Pitts competes well in contested-catch situations and is a dynamic playmaker after the catch. He could easily be the missing piece that could take the Panthers’ offense to the next level.

Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon

While it seems unlikely at this point, with a bit of luck, the Carolina Panthers may find themselves in a position to snag star left tackle Penei Sewell. Sewell is an elite offensive tackle prospect who has massive upside at the next level. He is an absolute can’t-miss player who will go extremely high in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Right now, the Panthers are unlikely to be in a position to land Sewell, but we still have a few weeks left. The 2021 NFL Draft order is yet to be determined and plenty can still happen. It is unlikely that the Panthers will be picking high enough to snag Sewell, but it is certainly not impossible. With a clear need at the left tackle position, Sewell would be an obvious target for this team if he is available when they go on the clock.