The Panthers are going to need a very strong 2019 draft class if they’re going to address their numerous roster holes and stay competitive in an increasingly difficult NFC South division.
Their preparations for the draft continued this week as they hosted Washington cornerback prospect Byron Murphy as well as Oklahoma offensive tackle Bobby Evans for official top-30 visits on Tuesday.
Murphy is among the top corners in this year’s class and is projected to be a first or early second-round pick. At Washington, he totaled six interceptions and 20 pass breakups in 20 games. If the Panthers have legitimate interest in him rather than just doing their due diligence, they might see him as a potential replacement for James Bradberry.
At the combine, Murphy measured in at 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds with 30.125 inch arms and 8.875 inch hands. He ran a 4.55 second 40-yard dash and posted a 120-inch broad jump.
As for Evans, he was part of the best offensive line in college football last year. Evans’ size is his main selling point. He checks in at 6-foot-4, 312 pounds. His arms were measured at 34.75 inches and his hands at 9.875 inches.
Some might see Evans as a guard at this level. If that’s the case, he could be the replacement for Greg Van Roten at left guard. Evans is projected to be a third-round pick.
