Report: Panthers have first-round grade on 3 QBs

The Carolina Panthers are in need of a quarterback heading into the NFL Draft, and most people expect them to select one with the sixth overall pick. They appear to be deciding between three.

Jonathan Alexander of the Charlotte Observer reports that the Panthers have given three quarterbacks a first-round grade — Malik Willis, Kenny Pickett and Matt Corral. If they choose to select a QB at No. 6, they may have their choice of any of the aforementioned players. None of the teams that pick before them are viewed as a lock to take a quarterback.

This year’s QB class is not considered very strong. Head coach Matt Rhule said earlier this offseason that he does not see it that way, however.

“There’s going to be a narrative about strength of the class, but history says there’s going to be a quarterback that comes out here that is going to be a franchise quarterback,” Rhule said. “We’re going to go through that process.”

The Panthers tried to acquire Deshaun Watson, but the three-time Pro Bowler ultimately chose the Cleveland Browns. Carolina recently gave Sam Darnold a big vote of confidence, but very few people believe he is their first option. Darnold threw nine touchdown passes and 13 interceptions last season after the Panthers acquired him in a trade with the New York Jets. Carolina went 4-7 in his starts.

There isn’t any real consensus about where the quarterbacks will land in this year’s draft. Kenny Pickett is viewed as the most pro-ready prospect, while Malik Willis is a dual threat with a ton of upside. Corral’s stock also appears to be on the rise. The only real surprise would be if the Panthers don’t take a QB at all.

Photo: Aug 27, 2021; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule before the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports