The 2013 scouting combine begins this weekend in Indianapolis, and while the Panthers could go in any direction with their early picks, they unfortunately wont get a look at two players who could be in play early. Kawann Short, projected 2nd round defensive tackle, and wide receiver Keenan Allen will both be sidelined for the combine as they nurse injuries.

Picked in the second round of Jaxon's pre-combine mock draft, Kawann Short of Purdue has all the trappings of an excellent NFL defensive tackle. A low base, and an ability to get into the backfield would be most welcome on a defense without a true force up the middle. Sadly, there are reports that not only will Short miss the combine, but he'll also miss Purdue's pro day. Instead, he'll be conducting his own workout for scouts in late March.

Wide receiver seems like it could be the most contentious position in the 2013 draft. There's a wide variety of opinions on Keenan Allen, ranging from a reliable possession receiver, to the second coming of Donald Driver. NFL Network's Mike Mayock believes Allen is the next Anquan Boldin. To the Panthers, he has the holy trinity of draftability -- he has size, is a Carolina native, and has college ties to Ron Rivera. This is a player who would be available at the 14th pick, but not in the second round. Unfortunately, Allen will also miss the combine as he continues to recover from a knee injury.

There's still a lot for Panthers' fans to watch this weekend. Sadly we wont learn anything more about these two players until later in the process.