As the Carolina Panthers prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, one position of interest is Wide Receiver. With the 33rd overall pick, the Panthers have an opportunity to bolster their receiving corps with a dynamic playmaker who can complement quarterback Bryce Young and elevate the passing game to new heights with new Head Coach Dave Canales. Here are some top wide receiver prospects projected to be available at pick 33, along with their 2023 college stats:
- Keon Coleman – Florida State: Coleman, a standout from Florida State, showcased his playmaking ability during the 2023 season. As a Junior, he recorded 50 receptions for 658 yards and 11 touchdowns, displaying his speed, route-running, and knack for making big plays downfield. Standing at 6’4″ with a rare blend of size and athleticism, Coleman has the potential to be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
- Xavier Worthy – Texas: Worthy emerged as a rising star at Texas during the 2023 campaign. The explosive Junior wideout totaled 75 catches for 1,014 yards and 5 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 13.5 yards per reception. His ability to stretch the field vertically and create separation makes him a dangerous threat in the passing game. With his speed and playmaking skills, Worthy has the potential to be a game-changer at the next level.
- Troy Franklin – Oregon: Franklin, a talented receiver out of Oregon, emerged during his Junior season in 2023. Franklin exploded for 81 receptions for 1383 yards and 14 touchdowns, showcasing his natural talent and potential. At 6’3″ with strong hands and the ability to win contested catches, Franklin has the physical tools to succeed in the NFL and could develop into a reliable target for Young.
- Brian Thomas Jr – LSU: Thomas, a highly touted prospect from LSU, had a fantastic Junior season in 2023. He finished the year with 68 receptions for 1177 yards and 17 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to make plays in the passing game. Thomas averaged a whopping 17.3 yards per catch. With his combination of size, speed, and route-running ability, Thomas has the versatility to line up all over the field and create mismatches against opposing defenses.
As the Panthers assess their options leading up to the draft, prospects like Keon Coleman, Xavier Worthy, Troy Franklin, and Brian Thomas stand out as potential targets to address the team’s need for playmaking receivers. With their impressive college production and tantalizing skill sets, these wideouts have the potential to make an immediate impact and provide a significant boost to Carolina’s offense in the upcoming season.
Desmond Johnson is the host of Bleav in Panthers on Bleav Podcast Networks with All Panthers SI’s Schuyler Callihan and Panthers All Time Leading Rusher Jonathan Stewart. Tune in Tuesday mornings live at Youtube.com/@TobaccoRoadSportsRadio
