Entering NFL Combine testing, there were a number of prospects in consideration for the Carolina Panthers and their seventh overall pick. With needs at virtually every position and a cloudy quarterback situation, the Panthers are expected to make an extremely important selection once on the clock in April.
After losing linebacker Luke Kuechly to a shocking early retirement already this offseason, the Panthers were expected to target Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons with their early pick. Before the NFL Combine, Simmons was projected as a first-round prospect with the reigning ACC Defensive Player of the Year and Butkus Award winner likely still available when general manager Marty Hurney makes the pick.