NFL Draft 2018: DJ Moore will be instant star for Carolina Panthers

The pick may have opened some eyes, but Maryland’s DJ Moore has the potential to be a breakout star as a rookie for the Panthers.

The Carolina Panthers have a decent core of players, but they have lost some luster on the offensive side of the ball over the years. That may have been fixed, or at least covered with duct tape, on Thursday night in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

DJ Moore was the selection by the Panthers at No. 24 which opened some eyes. He wasn’t expected to be the first receiver chosen, but the Panthers jumped at the opportunity to snatch him up and throw him in the slot. Could he be the next Steve Smith-type of wide out?

That comparison isn’t quite fair, but he’s drawing NFL comparisons to another breakout receiver from Maryland in Stefon Diggs, according to NFL.com. If he’s anything like what Diggs has become, the Panthers will be in good shape.

Carolina could have an All-Pro career with the Panthers and it’ll be interesting to see what kind of targets he gets behind Devin Funchess, Greg Olsen and Curtis Samuel, but he should be a fan favorite.

Next: Complete 7-round 2018 NFL Mock Draft

This kid is an absolute steal late in the first round even though some experts may have tabbed him as a second-rounder. Moore was often forgotten on draft boards, but he has that home run ability which makes him an instant threat to break out for the panthers. Watch him contend for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Grade: A-