Pro Football Draft Network | 2012 Pro Football Draft Analysis

1st Round (#1) QB Cam Newton, Auburn

3rd Round (#65) DT Terrell McClain, South Florida

3rd Round (#97) DT Sione Fua, Stanford

4th Round (#98) CB Brandon Hogan, West Virginia

5th Round (#132) WR Kealoha Pilares, Hawaii

6th Round (#166) LB Lawrence Wilson, Connecticut

6^th Round (#203)  C/G Zachary Williams, Washington State

7^th Round (#244) OT Lee Ziemba, Auburn

Analysis of Notable Selections:

Cam Newton: Jimmy Clausen did not do nearly enough for the Panthers to conclude that they already have their quarterback of the future.  Cam Newton was the best player in college football last season.  Critics can question the sincerity of his smile and how well he can learn a pro-style offense.  There is clearly risk in selecting the 2010 Heisman Trophy winner this high in the draft.  However, Newton’s upside is substantial and we certainly felt that Carolina should take this chance.  Newton’s poise under pressure and tremendous physical skills are impressive.  It is up to the Panthers now to surround Newton with a good team.  In addition, Newton’s development will happen faster if Carolina provides him with stability in offensive philosophy and coaches.  The last thing Cam Newton needs is three different offensive coordinators in his first four seasons.  Carolina made the right decision to go for the home run at the game’s most impactful position.  Ron Rivera will be successful as a head coach if the Panthers finally have a franchise quarterback.

Terrell McClain: Carolina’s biggest weakness on defense is very mediocre defensive tackle play.  The Panthers’ defensive tackles did not disrupt enough plays or collapse the pocket very often.  McClain is a powerful defensive tackle with some quickness.  His motor and instincts are just average, but he adds some talent to the team’s defensive tackle position.

Sione Fua: The Panthers go right back to address the weakness at defensive tackle with the former Stanford nose tackle.  PFDN regarded Fua as a bit underrated.  He plays hard and he can be tough to move out.  Fua should help the Panthers defend the run. 

Brandon Hogan: Carolina has had success recently in drafting defensive backs (Richard Marshall, Charles Godfrey, Sherrod Martin and Captain Munnerlyn).  Hogan may be the latest find.  The former West Virginia cornerback has the quickness, fluid hips, speed and ball skills to develop into a quality starting cornerback in the NFL.  Hogan tore his left ACL in December and may not be full strength until late in the season.  He also had some issues with alcohol in college.  Hogan was worth the risk in the 4^th round.

Kealoha Pilares: The former running back exploded in 2010 with a terrific season (88 receptions for 1,306 yards (14.8 per) with 15 touchdowns).  His production is inflated by Hawaii’s wide-open offense that produces plenty of gaudy passing statistics.  However, Pilares is quick and strong for his size (5’ 10” and 199 lbs).  The Panthers need wide receivers not named Steve Smith to make plays.  Pilares will have a chance to play early and he also can return kicks.

Lawrence Wilson: PFDN was surprised that Wilson lasted until the 6^th round.  He is undersized (6’ 1” and 230 lbs), but was very productive at Connecticut.  Wilson finds the football and is effective covering backs and tight ends.  He can make the Panthers and contribute on special teams.  Wilson was a quality late round pick.

2011 NFL Draft Grade: B

Bottom Line: Carolina faces a major rebuilding project.  Cam Newton must be the answer at quarterback or the Panthers will be racking up double-digit loss seasons for quite some time.  PFDN was higher on Newton than many and we think he has a good chance of being similar to Donovan McNabb.  Carolina bolstered their defensive tackle position and added a talented cornerback (Brandon Hogan).