Panthers strengthen offense in ESPN’s 7-round mock draft

Next, the Panthers get a local steal in Downs—who is easily amongst the most skilled route runners of the class.

If Carolina is going to take a quarterback at No. 1, it needs to add playmakers around him. My comp for Downs is Tyler Lockett. Downs has the potential to be a flexible secondary option from the slot as well as on the outside. He had 195 catches for 2,364 yards and 19 touchdowns over the past two seasons.