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The Carolina Panthers have selected Miami defensive tackle Kendrick Norton with the No. 242 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Norton is a 6’3” 314lbs. nose tackle who will provide competition and depth in the center of the Panthers vaunted defensive front. He’s pretty athletic for his size. Despite reports to the contrary, he is not the grandson of former Heavyweight boxing champion Ken Norton, Sr. and former NFL player (and 2x Super Bowl winner) Ken Norton, Jr.
My Take
Late in the draft, this could be a pretty good pick to try and push Vernon Butler to not take anything for granted. You have to love Norton’s pedigree, and if nothing else, he can plug holes at the 1-tech in our 4-3 front. Chances are he isn’t going to win that battle, but maybe he’ll show enough promise to find his way onto the roster or practice squad.
Poll
How would you grade this pick?
This poll is closed
-
26%
A
(156 votes) -
41%
B
(242 votes) -
21%
C
(124 votes) -
5%
D
(33 votes) -
4%
F
(27 votes)
Panthers 2018 draft picks
Round 1 - No. 24 overall
Round 2 - No. 55 overall
Round 3 - No. 85 overall (from BUF)
Round 3 - No. 88 overall
Round 5 - No. 161 overall
Round 6 - No. 197 overall
Round 7 - No. 234 overall (from LAC)
Round 7 - No. 242 overall
Panthers top five needs
Safety
Cornerback
Guard
Wide receiver
Defensive end