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2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Super Bowl LV

By Connor Muldowney

Trevor Lawrence (from left), Justin Fields, Zach WilsonNflqbdraft
Trevor Lawrence (from left), Justin Fields, Zach WilsonNflqbdraft /
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Jan 7, 2019; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) reacts during the first quarter during the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game against the Clemson Tigers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2019; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) reacts during the first quarter during the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game against the Clemson Tigers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Patrick Surtain. 8. player. Alabama. CB. 87. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis

The Panthers may be hoping that Justin Fields lands in their laps at No. 8, but I just don’t see that happening with a handful of teams needing a quarterback drafting ahead of them. They are looking to upgrade from Teddy Bridgewater and they could still do that with Trey Lance, but he’s less of a sure thing.

That’s why I think Carolina goes with another need at cornerback with the eighth overall pick. And that’s where Patrick Surtain II comes into play.

Surtain II had quite the showing in the 2021 College Football Playoff, really boosting his stock against Notre Dame and Ohio State while Shaun Wade saw his drop. The Tide cornerback proved to be the best cornerback in the 2021 draft class.

Carolina needs a lockdown corner and he could be just that, especially if he gets to play on the short side of the field in man coverage. He’s not the fastest corner, but he does have length and is disruptive in the short passing game.

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