At this point in the offseason, it’s safe to say that the Panthers can go in any direction with their first-round pick. There have been rumors that they are still looking at quarterbacks and also hints that they will have a defense-heavy draft. Another possibility we can’t dismiss is a flashy pick to really round out their receiving corps.
Let’s take a look at a true game-changing 2020 NFL draft prospect, Alabama’s Henry Ruggs III.
Scouting Report:
Ruggs measured in at 5-foot-11, 188 pounds at the NFL Combine. He had an incredible performance in drills, as he ran a blazing 4.27 second forty yard dash, jumped 42 inches on the vertical and 131 inches in the broad.
Ruggs has legendary speed and an unbelievable ability to accelerate to his top gear. However, Ruggs is much more than a speed threat. He is a quality route runner, has a sharp release with a surprising ability to break press coverage for a player his size, tracks the deep ball extremely well and has some fight in him when asked to go up and make a contested catch. Ruggs also has tremendous run after the catch ability, as he is consistently able to catch the ball in stride with natural hands and turn on the jets instantly.
Ruggs does not have too many inconsistencies or concerns in his game. Obviously people will hate on him for his small frame, but he eliminates that concern with aggresion. Ruggs has unique athleticism and checks all the boxes for a top receiver prospect. He is an early to mid first-round lock and will be a game changer come Week 1 for whoever drafts him.
Highlights:
Ruggs vs. Auburn
Ruggs vs. South Carolina
Ruggs vs. Southern Miss
Ruggs vs. Lafayette
Ruggs vs. LSU
Fit With the Panthers:
Ruggs would give the Panthers unbelievable depth at receiver. Here’s the pitch; imagine pairing his abilities with speed of Curtis Samuel, Robby Anderson, and D.J. Moore. Defenses would have absolutely no chance to matchup against each of those four receivers. Obviously, the team has more important areas of need, but let’s not forget that Joe Brady’s offense demands a lot from the receiver group. Adding a guy like Ruggs would definitely complete the group.
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