Despite having the conviction to move up to the first overall pick of the 2023 draft, the Carolina Panthers may not have the conviction on exactly which quarterback they’ll be taking. But according to a longtime NFL draft analyst, the choice could be down to two prospects.
Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline tweeted on Monday that the Panthers are specifically targeting two players—Ohio State University’s CJ Stroud and University of Florida’s Anthony Richardson. He also notes some uncertainty on Carolina’s part.
After speaking with multiple sources this weekend including those close to the team, the Carolina Panthers are targeting two quarterbacks in the draft- CJ Stroud/Ohio St & Anthony Richardson/UF. Debating whether they are willing to use the first pick of the draft on Richardson.
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) March 13, 2023
That debate stems from a relatively scant body of work from Richardson. While he is the most physically and athletically gifted quarterback in this class, the 6-foot-4, 244-pounder started just 13 games in college.
Plus, the tape we do have on Richardson raises a few questions on his inconsistencies as a passer. From the stat sheet—he completed 53.8 percent of his throws for 2,549 yards, 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
As for Stroud, he’s also been previously linked to Carolina—just like Richardson. According to Joe Person of The Athletic, there’s a feeling amongst league insiders that the Panthers will use the top pick on the Heisman Trophy finalist—who may throw the prettiest ball of this year’s group.
