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!
9) Vic Beasley Clemson OLB34 6’3/235
Mel’s Take- Wowed the world at the Combine. At 260, he lead all Dlinemen and Linebackers with 35 reps on the Bench and ran a 4.53 in the 40. Beasley is a beast and is very fluid. An elite edge pass rusher and will be an early selection. I see him more as an OLB for a 3-4 Team and therefore is not a projected fit for the Panthers. He would be exactly what the Steelers would want. And let’s hope he does not end up in Atlanta.
10) Andrus Peat Stanford LOT 6'7/315
Mel's Take- Ran a 5.2 at the Combine. I do find it curious that he opted to not bench press. I would check that as a scout prior to taking him this high. But he is so big and smooth. I had some reservations when first watching him and he isn't perfect. BUT, he is so well built and is a natural athlete, I think with the proper coaching and a little patience, he will be an outstanding LT in this league. He is the only true LT projected to be drafted in top 15. But if he is there at 25, there is no way the Panthers pass on him.
11) Trae Waynes Michigan St. 6’1/185
Mel's Take- Ran a sizzling 4.31 at the Combine and looked silky smoot in drills. Has the prototypical size to stand up against the new-age WRs. Needs experience but looks to have all the abilities to play and excel at the next level. Is going to have to get stronger in order to press a Julio Jones type. But at 4.31 speed he may not have to press.
12) Danny Shelton Washington DL 6’1/ 330
Mel's Take- Incredibly impressive at the Combine. Would be a cornerstone to build a Defense around. I could see John Fox taking him in Chicago to play the Chris Jenkins roll. If you need a run stopper, here’s your guy. A big fire-plug as well as a “Dancing-Bear.” Huge man with excellent athleticism and endurance. High motor as well, but gets surprisingly overwhelmed at times. Consistency is key for Shelton. Had six sacks in first two games but only 1.5 in next eight games. With time, he could fit in well with Monsters Inc. in Carolina.
13) Dante Fowler, Jr DE 6'3/ 260 lbs
Mel's Take- Ran an impressive 4.61 40 at Combine. That is way faster than most QBs. He will get after the QB. Kind of a tweener in that some project him as a LB. Solid size with good speed and a high motor. Not a quick twitch athlete so would have trouble beating NFL Tackles
14) Eddie Goldman FSU 6’4/320
Mel’s Take - One of the best Defensive Lineman in the draft. Didn't work out at Combine so Pro Day will be important. Hearing he did very well in the interview rooms though. NFL ready body that is versatile. Can play the nose in a 3-4 and even a DE in a 4-3. For Carolina he would play inside with Star and KK most likely and kicking outside in certain situations. Quick off the ball and is a Dancing-Bear. Would not hurt me to see him in Carolina.
15) Marcus Peters Washington CB 6’0/198
Mel’s Take- May drop a little in draft after running a 4.57 40 at the Combine. IF he falls all the way to 25, I doubt he makes it past Carolina. Sensational athlete who is also very instinctive and disciplined in his technique. Problems surround his character though so that will have to be thoroughly vetted. Washington was dismissed from team after clashing with coaches. Big red flag but early word is that is not a long term concern and that he is a good kid.
16) Malcom Brown Texas DT 6’2/320
Mel’s Take- Ideal size and concensus All-American DT that had 72 tackles, 15 TFL and 7.5 sacks. This is the kind of Blue Goose that I'm not sure Gettleman can pass on.