The Panthers will be playing their third-string quarterback this week when rookie Will Grier gets his first start against the Colts. It’s a reminder of just how important depth at QB is. We don’t know if Cam Newton will be back next year or not. Either way, Carolina should consider adding another quarterback in the draft.
Here are a few 2020 QB prospects to watch.
Justin Herbert, Oregon (6-foot-6, 238 pounds)
The leader of the Pac-12 champions has been a polarizing figure this season and there’s a wide range of opinions on Herbert among draft analysts. Since guys like Joe Burrow will be out of reach, he may be the best option available when the Panthers are on the clock with their first pick. The Rose Bowl and the Senior Bowl (if he goes) could be very telling and a huge opportunity for Herbert to prove he belongs in the first round.
Jordan Love, Utah State (6-foot-4, 225 pounds)
Love is another intriguing prospect and not just for what he did in 2019. He threw for 17 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, leading some to wonder if he’s worth a first-round pick. If Love declares for the draft he should definitely still be available on Day 2, though. The buzz is that Love may decide to become a graduate transfer. Schools such as Texas Tech and Oklahoma could be in play if that’s the case.
Jacob Eason, Washington (6-foot-6, 227 pounds)
The Panthers have already been connected to Eason in a few early mock drafts. After getting stuck behind Jake Fromm, Eason had to take a year off after transferring from Georgia. Once he got on the field for Washington he proved he had starter potential, though. This year, he threw for almost 3,000 yards and 22 touchdowns. Eason is a prospect who could be a capable backup behind Newton and perhaps more some day.
Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma (6-foot-2, 218 pounds)
Perhaps instead of a backup the Panthers will want to get a younger version of Cam Newton. Hurts fits in some ways. While he may not have the strength of the last two No. 1 picks, he was a Heisman finalist. Depending on the coach and scheme, Hurts could take some time to become a solid starter. His connection with potential head coach candidate Lincoln Riley adds to the intrigue.
