Draft picks : Needs vs Value

Going into this draft, it was widely noted that the Panthers biggest needs were DL and CB.
So far, the first two picks have been other positions, though very good values for each / two potentially excellent players.

Have the Panthers just adopted the draft philosophy of best player available, OR
Are the Panthers confident that Ron Edwards and Brandon Hogan are the answers for DL / CB ?

 

they said on both picks they went with their board, though with both it sounded like they had specifically targeted each too.

Of course you could argue both were needs, too - that they have three guys that could fight for one guard spot.

I think what they're doing will be more clear through 4 and 5. I do still want a corner, but after 4 we're going to get away from guys that can help out. If they say Hogan will do it, we'll see. If they say Wilks can be better than Meeks, that I can buy.

 

I think you have to at least think they are answers, build depth with bpa. We have yet to even see Hogan or Edwards. Fua and Terrell should be better this season with a year of experience.

 

Cowboys still have Jenkins CB they want to trade

Or maybe a vet from another team

 

Edwards I like, that shouldn't be a big deal, but it's what's next to him. And that going with one vet is what caught us screwed in the first place. But that's a vet need, I guess.

 

Realistically the Panthers aren't ready to compete in 2012, so you shouldn't chase specific needs as if filling those would make you a complete team. I understand the safe approach where you take guys who are very likely to make the team better as opposed to some riskier picks at bigger needs who may or may not pan out. The theory is that the team can band-aid certain positions now and then hopefully find a more long-term solution in 2013.

 

Yeah I've looked at it like '13 is the year we could have things more in place.

I like the idea of getting good football players.

 

Solid, realistic view.

 

you just go get the guy that can help you most. I don't think there has to be a master plan in place that revolves around your 4th round pick.

 

After 104 I don't really care what their plan is, it's kind of a crapshoot anyway. But 104 needs to contribute in some way this year. RB scatback type, CB, DT. Best of the three for me.

edit: Unless the Wash DT is there, CB would be my best choice. Unless they really want a RB for the return game.