There is no question the Panthers secondary struggled last year, with Donte Jackson and Eric Reid floundering in coverage and plenty of mediocrity to go around for the rest. Tre Boston and James Bradberry made up the lone bright spots. However, they are both set to become free agents.

On the bright side, the team’s pass rush improved tremendously. Now, they just need more ball hawks on the back end to take advantage. Even if the team re-signs Bradberry, Matt Rhule and his staff still need to find another outside corner who can force turnovers and free Jackson up to return to his natural nickel position.

Fortunately, the cornerback class in this year’s NFL draft is deep. One player stands head and shoulders above the rest, though. Let’s take a look at Jeff Okudah and what he could bring to Carolina’s defense.

Scouting Report:
Okudah (6-foot-1, 200 pounds) is one of the best corner prospects we have seen in recent years. The Ohio State product possesses elite man coverage skills and is also rock-solid in zone. Okudah is a rare corner who is sticky in coverage and can mirror even the best route runners in football. His ball skills are also a strength, as he racked up three interceptions and nine pass breakups this past season. He gets beat off the press occasionally. However, Okudah has outstanding closing speed to make up for it.

Highlights:

Okudah vs. Clemson

Okudah vs. Michigan State

Okudah vs. Indiana

Okudah vs. Washington

College numbers:
35 games, three interceptions, 18 pass breakups, two fumbles recovered, 64 solo tackles, one forced fumble.

Fit with the Panthers:
Adding a piece like Okudah would free up new defensive coordinator Phil Snow to be more scheme-diverse with his coverages and blitzes. If they were to utilize him as a true man-to-man press corner, the whole unit could improve. With Okudah locking down one side of the field, Eric Reid could play more as a blitzer or box safety where he’s a better fit. It also would allow Jackson to move to the slot, eliminating the group’s weakest link. If Okudah is there at No. 7, the Panthers can’t go wrong picking him.

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