Carolina Panthers’ Quarterback Situation Becomes A Bright Spot Thanks To Their Draft
Friday, July 23rd, 2010I recently posted an article that evaluates the 2010 Carolina Panthers’ draft (www.profootballdraftnetwork.com/post-draft-analysis/nfc-south-post-draft-analysis/north-carolina-panthers ).
Carolina made a poor decision when they resigned Jake Delhomme prior to the 2009 season. Delhomme proved that his propensity to turn the ball over was not just an aberration. The Panthers released the 35-year old Delhomme after last season. The problem was the team only had the unproven, Matt Moore, at quarterback. Moore played well in the 5 games that he started last year. However, it made no sense for Carolina to hitch their wagon to such an inexperienced player who did not have a stellar collegiate career.
The 2010 NFL Draft was not deep at the quarterback position. There were only two quarterbacks (Sam Bradford and Jimmy Clausen) in the draft that most teams evaluated to have a decent chance of developing into legitimate starting quarterbacks in the NFL. Carolina figured that with their first selection being the 48th pick overall that they had no chance at either quarterback. Clausen dropped right to Carolina largely due to questions about his leadership skills.
Sometimes during the draft process teams focus too much on the potential weaknesses a player may have. Prospects can be nitpicked to death. The result is teams can overlook what a player can do well. Clausen has a lot of ability and no one accused him of being lazy. He finds himself in a positive situation in Carolina. The Panthers have a quality offensive line and a top running game. Clausen does not have to start right away. He is only a mid-2nd round draft choice and does not have the pressure of being a top 10 pick who is supposed to be a savior. It will be interesting to see how well he develops in the coming years.
