Dan Kadar has released his final first round mock draft before the big event unfolds tonight at 8 p.m. ET, and with the No. 24 pick he gives the Carolina Panthers some help at wide receiver.
24. Carolina Panthers: Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
Don’t be surprised if this pick ends up being an interior offensive lineman or defensive back, but it would be hard to pass up on Ridley. The Panthers need a top-end wide receiver, and Ridley is arguably the best one in this draft.
Mike Mayock from NFL Network also picked Ridley for the Panthers in his mock draft, which is strange considering Ridley was supposed to be long gone by the time the Panthers’ pick is due.
My take
I don’t quite know how I’m supposed to feel about this pick. Ridley is the first receiver taken in Kadar’s mock, but I don’t think he’ll make it to No. 24 overall. Surely someone picking ahead of the Panthers will take him, right? Crazier things have happened, but I just don’t see Ridley being there when the Panthers are on the clock. If he’s there, and if the Panthers take him, it won’t be the worst decision ever. But, for everyone who loves Ridley and wants the Panthers to draft him - I wouldn’t get my hopes up.
What do you think, Panthers fans? Do the Panthers have a shot at grabbing Ridley? Should they take him if he’s available? Share your thoughts with us!