Carolina Panthers draft needs: 5 small schoolers who can turn the Panthers around

The Carolina Panthers have several key pieces already in place going into the 2019 NFL season. They do have a few holes, but this team is on the rise. Five areas I think they could improve are at offensive tackle, wide receiver, safety, defensive end, and center.

Many of the Panthers fans have been drooling over big-name prospects but we want to do something a little different this year. We want to focus on a few small school players who the average draft person is not talking about. So let’s get this thing started!

Dan Cooney, OT, University of San Diego – The 6080 offensive tackle is the best offensive lineman from the FCS, yet people are not talking about him much. He should have been in the Senior Bowl but was snubbed. This kid is by far one of the best players in the draft at the O-Line position. He will likely be drafted late, and rightfully so.

Damion Jeanpiere Jr., WR, Nicholls State – Cam Newton needs himself another player that can take the top off the defense. Jeanpiere is a stud who many are sleeping on. He participated in the NFLPA game and he has speed. The 6010 wideout may need to add a few pounds, but he can dominate at the next level. He will likely be a priority free agent to late-round draft pick. Remember his name come April his stock will rise.

Marvin Tillman, S, Western Carolina – The Panthers do not have to look far to find talent at safety. Tillman is a 6010, 200-pound safety from Durham, North Carolina who is not afraid of leveling a player coming down the middle of the field. Tillman is a steal and will likely end up being a priority free agent.

John Cominsky, DE, Charleston – The small school defensive end will be a player you have to spend a draft pick on but he has something you cannot coach. His heart and his motor are relentless and NFL personnel are going to fall in love with him. While he struggled a bit at the Senior Bowl he will shine when it comes to the Combine. I believe the Panthers will have to spend a 4th-7th to land Cominsky.

Tyler Scozarro, OC, Jacksonville State University – Scozarro is coming off an amazing senior season, but suffered an injury late in the year. He will be recovered soon, and I would take a flier on him. The 6030, 300 pound offensive lineman fits the mold of an NFL center. He will be a solid pick up and can likely be signed as a priority free agent after the draft.