Mel's 64 is my take on who the top 64 players entering the draft are and commentary on each as to how they may or may not fit with Carolina. Come back often as the order will change as players declare or return to school. Combine and workout results will change things too. Hope you enjoy!
41) Duke Johnson RB 5'9/ 195
Mel’s Take- Duke ran in a similar offense as the Panthers and was the featured back and is the all-time leading rusher at the U. In 2014, he had 242 rushes for 1652 yds and 10 TDs to go with 38 rec., 421 yards and 3 TDs through the air. He ran a disappointing 4.59 40 at the Combine which may make him available at Pick 57. He would be a very solid Rd 2 Pick.
42) Doran Grant Ohio St. CB 5’10/ 193
Mel’s Take- Good speed with adequate size and ball skills. Ran an impressive 4.44 40 at the Combine. Played second fiddle to Roby last year and showing he has upside in 2014. Plays off man coverage and needs to work on press technique or will get pushed around by bigger Wide Receivers. But Grant could be a very nice pick for the Panthers if available in the 2nd Round.
43) Owamagbe Odighizuwa UCLA OLB34 6’3/ 265
Mel’s Take- Definition of a "Blue Goose" Honestly not sure if DG can pass on this guy. Long, lean, pass rushing machine out of UCLA. Had surgery on both hips in 2013 but returned to play in every game in 2014 and had 5 sacks with 11.5 tackles for a loss. Looked really good at the Combine too.
44) Kevin Johnson Wake Forest CB 6'1/175
Mel’s Take- Long athletic Corner that just always seems to be around the ball and making plays. Ran a 4.52 40 and looked very smooth at the Combine. 175 lbs is light and he will need to bulk up without losing speed. But is a playmaker and would look good in Carolina.
45) Mike Davis S Carolina RB 5’9/215
Mel’s Take- Very well rounded back with good size and great hands that will make him a 3-down back in the NFL. Averaging 5.1 ypc in SEC and 11.1 yards per reception is eye-popping. Ran a disappointing 4.61 40 which could hurt his value, but I think he is great value at Pick 57. Though would not match up to Panthers biggest needs.
46) TJ Clemmings Pittsburgh LOT/ROT 6’5/305
Mel’s Take- This guy could end up being the best LT in the draft. Mike Mayock ranks him #1 among OTs. Clemmings has played more RT but has the body and feet to play RT. Strong hands and plays with the right attitude. Needs time to develop his technique and most likely not ready Day 1. But a great Rd 2 selection for the Panthers in my estimation. He looked smoth and athletic at the Combine and ran a 5.14 40.
47) Paul Dawson TCU LB 6’0/ 235
Mel's Take- Terrible Combine where he ran a 4.96 40. But is the most instinctual LB in the draft and is where he needs to be prior to his opponent. After Combine he tweeted "Not a trackstar, I"m a football player. See you on the field." Would be a strong fit with the Panthers in Round 2.
48) Nelson Agholor WR USC (the other one) 6’0/185
Mel's Take- Ran a 4.44 at Combine, then missed the rest of the drills with a dislocated finger. This smooth route-runner would be a nice addition to the Carolina WR stable. Though I'm hessitant with all USC receivers, Agholor is appealing. 104 receptions for 1313 yards with 12 TDs. If a couple of inches taller, he'd be in the First Round.