Don't assume the Panthers first pick...

[rayzor]

I feel like if Blackmon is there at 8, we take him.

no doubt, but i seriously doubt he's going to last past the first 5 picks.

[Captain Morgan]

Do you really think we can count on Otah? In addition, who is our backup LT? Wharton. Who was below average vs the pass last season? Wharton. Who is scheduled to make nearly $8 million in 2012? Wharton.

And Gross is 32. If there was ever a need at T, it is now.

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BPA--that is misleading because you also have to factor in the difficulty in finding a quality player at any position. For example, there are 3 legit LTs in the draft. 2 franchise QBs. Rarity has to factor in. The Panthers may not get the chance to draft a LT because they will draft too high for years to come.

Take the LT.

What defensive players will be on the board at 8/9 that fill a need and will not necessitate a reach? Kirpatrick CB; Coples DE; and maybe Still, DT. No OLB, FS is scheduled to go that early.

Here are the arguments against each defensive player mentioned:

Dre Kirkpatrick: Will we take a guy who was busted for pot at such a critical time in his life? Is he a good fit for our defense? What about Hogan? How good is he?

Quintn Coples: Is he consistent and does he have a strong motor? Has he been able to rely on natural ability and when heart is needed, he will not be able to provide it?

Still, DT: I think this one-hit-wonder will drop. Besides, DT is one of the positions with the highest first round bust rate. Hurney is usually pretty safe in the first round.

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Protect Cam. Draft for the next 12 years and not next season only. LT is a need that will only get worse if not addressed with quality. You do not find quality LTs in the second half of the first round. Take one now when you can get one.

I've thought about this post a lot, and I'm starting to agree with it.

First, we're going to be drafting in the 20's for the next 12 years or so

unless Cam gets injured. You would be lucky to find a star LT that late.

Second, it's obvious this franchise is Cam Newton....protecting him is

a HIGH PRIORITY.

Third...look at this stat..

Blitzed

190 Dropbacks: 14 runs, 88/154 for 1401, 12 TD, 2 Int, 22 Sack

Teams are gonna look at that and say, don't blitz Cam, drop back and make him beat you with his arm...that means he's gonna be in the pocket more....which means we better have the line to protect him.

[Panthro]

If we take a OT please make sure it's Reiff