Panthers could fill Norman’s spot in the draft

Unable to come to a long-term agreement with Pro Bowl cornerback Josh Norman, Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman made the surprising decision Wednesday to rescind his team’s franchise tag, essentially kicking Norman to the curb.

Allowing popular Panthers to leave via free agency is nothing new for Gettleman, of course. In helping Carolina emerge out of salary cap purgatory, Gettleman released running back Deangelo Williams, wide receiver Steve Smith and pass rushers Jared Allen and Greg Hardy.

In building Carolina into a Super Bowl contender, Gettleman and his staff have demonstrated the ability to replace over-priced veterans with youth via the draft, which is precisely what the club must do now with Norman, who is expected to draw heavy (and immediate) interest on the open market.

So, which prospects available in next week’s draft make the most sense for the Panthers with one of their first three picks?

NFLDraftScout.com explores, providing five candidates to supplement a roster currently “boasting” Bene’ Benwikere and Ras-I Dowling as potential starters.

Mackensie Alexander, Clemson 5-10, 190, 4.49 His athletic, compact frame gives him a build closer to that of a running back than most corners, but Alexander passes the eye test. He …

continue reading in source www.cbssports.com