DRAFT DAY 2008

[boogiesdad]

UPDATED

NFL Team: Carolina Panthers 2008 Picks
RD PK(OVR) NAME POS SCHOOL
1 13(13) Jonathan Stewart RB OREGON
Carolina still has a need at offensive tackle, so it wouldn't have surprised us if the Panthers had taken one here. However, their second most pressing need, in our opinion, is running back. Stewart's stock dropped because of a toe injury that required surgery; it is one of a few nagging injuries he's endured during his career. His stock has really bounced back recently because he will likely be ready for training camp. He's a power back who can pick up the tough yards between the tackles and has the burst to go the distance when he gets into the open field. Video
Complete analysis
1 19(19) Jeff Otah OT PITTSBURGH
From Philadelphia
Trading back up to get Otah makes sense for the Panthers. The other five tackles who were projected to go in the first round all have been selected. Otah lacks ideal athletic ability and needs running back or tight end help at times in pass protection. Still, he has excellent size and is a fierce competitor who excels at driving defenders off the ball. Video
Complete analysis
3 4(67) Charles Godfrey CB IOWA
From NY Jets
He has his limitations in man coverage because he takes too long to open his hips when he's forced to turn and run downfield. However, he shows good bursts coming out of his backpedal and he's a playmaker. He can also line up at safety and is an outstanding special teams player.
Complete analysis
3 11(74) Dan Connor ILB PENN STATE
Connor doesn't have elite athletic ability and has problems matching up in man coverage, so he's probably a better fit on the inside. He also has to get stronger at the point of attack. On the other hand, he has excellent instincts, takes great pursuit angles and is a reliable open-field tackler.
Complete analysis
5 6(141) Gary Barnidge TE LOUISVILLE
From N.Y. Jets
Barnidge adjusts well to passes thrown outside his frame and is big enough to develop into a productive red zone target. Although he has the frame to get bigger, he's undersized and can get driven back when lined up at the traditional tight end spot.
6 15(181) Nick Hayden DT WISCONSIN
7 14(221)
7 34(241)
7 43(250)


ESPN.COM

[Rooster]

I wanted Mendenhall but I haven't seen him or Stewart much. Yay for a RB!

[Icness]

Stewart is a very good pick.
The Otah trade is one of the biggest ripoffs in draft history, and the Panthers are on the wrong end of that hose. You do not trade a future 1st rounder and 3 other picks for an immobile guard.

Very nice second day thus far--GOdfrey is small but very talented, and I love the Dan Connor pick.