Carolina Panthers 2016 NFL Draft Grades

Morgan Epstein grades the Carolina Panthers 2016 NFL Draft. Does Carolina have a bright future after drafting Vernon Butler with the thirtieth pick in the 2016 NFL Draft?

30. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech B Grade

Star Lotuleilei and Kawaan Short are both in contract years. Carolina may not be getting an immediate starter, but from a business standpoint, this pick is totally understandable as Carolina will probably only end up keeping one of their two Pro Bowl defensive tackles.

62. James Bradberry, CB, Samford B Grade

James Bradberry is Carolina's nickel cornerback. This is another solid pick as Carolina needed to find a nickel cornerback with the potential to develop into a #1 field cornerback down the road.

77. Daryl Worley, CB, West Virginia B Grade

Daryl Worley is dime cornerback on Carolina's depth chart. There is enough upside for him to develop into a #2 boundary cornerback across from James Bradberry.

141. Zack Sanchez, CB, Oklahoma B Grade

Zack Sanchez is a quarter cornerback on Carolina's depth chart. He has potential to develop into a nickel cornerback. This pick deserves another solid B grade.

252. Beau Sandland, TE, Montana State D Grade

Beau Sandland is currently a fourth string tight end on Carolina's depth chart. He has potential to develop into Greg Olsen's backup and possible successor. Right now Sandland will be lucky to be the third string tight end on Carolina's depth chart with Olsen and Ed Dickson as a backup on this roster. That's why I gave this pick a D grade.

Carolina Panthers Team Grade: B Grade

Carolina did well for a team with only five draft picks. You really have to credit the Panthers in that regard. Now its up to head coach Ron Rivera to develop these guys.