2015 NFL Draft: Carolina Panthers Way Too Early 7-Round Mock

By Andrew Skaggs

Panthers Way Too Early 7-Round Mock

Cam Newton Panthers — With the Carolina Panthers struggling through a 3-7-1 start to the season, it is never too early to look ahead to the 2015 NFL Draft. The Panthers are currently projected to have the eighth overall pick in the first round and have several needs to fill. Let's take a look at a way too early 7-round mock draft.

Round 1, Pick 8 - Amari Cooper, WR Alabama

Amari Cooper Alabama

Round 1, Pick 8 - Amari Cooper, WR Alabama

Amari Cooper Alabama — Height: 6'1" Weight: 210 lbs
Despite taking WR Kelvin Benjamin in the first round last year, it wouldn't surprise me if the Panthers double dip at the position in 2015. Cooper is the consensus No. 1 wide receiver in the draft class and has a chance to be a Heisman finalist. Cooper is an exceptional route-runner who has great hands and run after the catch ability. Cooper and Benjamin would form an elite receiving duo in Carolina.

Round 2, Pick 40 - Marcus Peters, CB Washington

Marcus Peters Washington

Round 2, Pick 40 - Marcus Peters, CB Washington

Marcus Peters Washington — Height: 6'0" Weight: 200 lbs
Marcus Peters is a first round talent but could slide in the draft because of character concerns. Peters was recently dismissed from the Washington football program and has a reputation of not getting along with coaches. On the field, Peters is a smooth cover corner who has good size and ball skills for the cornerback position. The Panthers need a lot of help in the secondary and Peters could be a steal in Round 2.

Round 3, Pick 72 - Jake Fisher, OT Oregon

Jake Fisher Oregon

Round 3, Pick 72 - Jake Fisher, OT Oregon

Jake Fisher Oregon — Height: 6'6" Weight: 300 lbs
The Panthers could finally address their offensive line woes in the third round with the selection of Jake Fisher. He is a three-year starter at Oregon who was sorely missed in the few games that he missed with injury this season. Fisher is an athletic left tackle prospect and has a good frame with quick feet. Fisher would provide an immediate upgrade at either tackle spot for Carolina.

Round 4, Pick 84 - Duke Johnson, RB Miami

Duke Johnson Miami

Round 4, Pick 84 - Duke Johnson, RB Miami

Duke Johnson Miami — Height: 5'10" Weight: 205 lbs
Despite being heavily invested in both DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart at the running back position, Carolina will likely cut ties with one or both backs due to their lack of durability and effectiveness. Duke Johnson has enjoyed a great career at Miami and has really improved this season thanks to adding more muscle to his small frame. Johnson is a home-run threat who could also be an every-down back.

Round 5, Pick 116 - Isaiah Johnson, SS Georgia Tech

Isaiah Johnson Georgia Tech

Round 5, Pick 116 - Isaiah Johnson, SS Georgia Tech

Isaiah Johnson Georgia Tech — Height: 6'1" Weight: 213 lbs
Eventually the Panthers are going to have to spend multiple draft picks to improve a secondary that needs an overhaul. Isaiah Johnson could be someone Carolina takes a look at late in the draft as a potential sleeper. Johnson missed the 2013 season with a knee injury but has returned to form this season and is one of the leaders of the Georgia Tech defense.

Round 6, Pick 148 - Tyler Lockett, WR Kansas State

Tyler Lockett Kansas State

Round 6, Pick 148 - Tyler Lockett, WR Kansas State

Tyler Lockett Kansas State — Height: 5'11" Weight: 175 lbs
The Panthers continue to add weapons for Cam Newton with the selection of Tyler Lockett from Kansas State. Locket is a speedy, slot receiver who has had a very productive career for the Wildcats. With Cooper and Benjamin on the outside, Lockett would be a nice complimentary receiver in the slot. Lockett also adds value as a returner, both on punts and kickoffs.

Round 7, Pick 180 - Blake Bell, TE Oklahoma

Blake Bell Oklahoma

Round 7, Pick 180 - Blake Bell, TE Oklahoma

Blake Bell Oklahoma — Height: 6'6" Weight: 260 lbs
An interesting seventh round pick for the Panthers could be tight end Blake Bell from Oklahoma. Bell is a converted quarterback, who only has 13 receptions on the season, but four of those have went for touchdowns. Bell has great size and he is an above average athlete for the position. Despite the presence of Greg Olsen, Bell could be a developmental tight end with upside in the future.

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