In the high-stakes world of the NFL, few decisions carry more weight than how a team utilizes its first-round draft picks. For the Carolina Panthers, a series of missteps and departures involving these coveted selections has left the franchise reeling. As they prepare to face former first-rounder Brian Burns and the New York Giants, the harsh reality of their draft woes looms large.
A Shocking Revelation
When informed that the Panthers had parted ways with four consecutive first-round picks from 2016 to 2019, even seasoned veterans like Jadeveon Clowney were taken aback. “That’s crazy,” the three-time Pro Bowler exclaimed. “That’s not a good sign. Usually, most organizations don’t let their great or best players out of the building.”
Clowney’s surprise is understandable. After all, those early selections are meant to serve as the foundation upon which a successful roster is built. Yet, the Panthers now find themselves facing the consequences of those departed talents.
The Brian Burns Dilemma
Perhaps no loss stings quite as much as that of Brian Burns. The dynamic outside linebacker, selected 16th overall in 2019, had already amassed an impressive 46 sacks during his five seasons in Carolina. Now, as a member of the Giants, he’s continued his dominant play, registering five sacks through nine games.
The Panthers’ decision to trade Burns for a pair of mid-round picks has raised eyebrows around the league. Multiple executives believe the team may have missed an opportunity to secure a more substantial return, with reports suggesting the Los Angeles Rams had offered two first-rounders prior to the 2023 trade deadline.
A Trail of Departed Talent
Burns is hardly the only casualty of Carolina’s draft misfortunes. The team also moved on from receiver DJ Moore (24th pick, 2018), running back Christian McCaffrey (8th pick, 2017), and defensive tackle Vernon Butler (30th pick, 2016).
While Butler’s departure was less controversial, the losses of McCaffrey and Moore have left gaping holes in the Panthers’ offense. McCaffrey, when healthy, possessed a game-changing ability that elevated the entire unit. Moore, meanwhile, provided a reliable target and consistent production.
The Road to Rebuilding
As the Panthers aim to dig themselves out of this draft-induced hole, the burden falls on the shoulders of new general manager Dan Morgan. His approach centers on accumulating young talent through the draft, with recent selections like rookie pass catchers Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, and Ja’Tavian Sanders already contributing.
However, the path to contention is fraught with uncertainty. Quarterback Bryce Young, the first overall pick in 2023, has shown flashes of promise but remains a work in progress. Left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, selected sixth overall in 2022, faces the daunting task of anchoring a rebuilding offensive line.
“When you’re constantly having to bring in so many outsiders because you’re constantly not hitting in the draft, it’s hard to truly set a firm culture and hold people to a standard,” one executive noted.
The Panthers’ struggle to establish a clear identity and direction has been further compounded by the revolving door of head coaches and general managers in recent years. Without stability and a consistent vision, the franchise risks remaining mired in mediocrity.
The Long Road Ahead
As the Panthers prepare to face Brian Burns and the Giants, they do so knowing that their former first-rounder is thriving elsewhere. It serves as a bitter reminder of the talent they’ve let slip away and the challenges that lie ahead.
Rebuilding through the draft is a sound strategy, but it requires patience, shrewd evaluation, and a bit of luck. The Panthers must hope that their recent selections pan out and that they can finally establish the culture and stability necessary for sustained success.
Until then, the specter of those lost first-rounders will continue to haunt the franchise, a cautionary tale of the importance of maximizing early draft capital. For the Panthers, the road to redemption is long and winding, but it starts with making the most of the picks they have left.
