1st annual Fanball Sports Network Mock Draft: What could have been… The 16th pick
February 20th, 2010 | by James R Dator |
Arrelious Benn, WR- Illinois
- – - – -
As we all know the Panthers traded their 1st round pick in the 2010 to secure 2nd and 4th round picks from San Francisco which ultimately led to the selections of both DE Everette Brown, and RB Mike Goodson.
It’s tough to do a true ‘What if’ analysis with this pick because had the Panthers not made the trade in 2009 they would most definitely need to address the DE position with the likely departure of Julius Peppers. That being said, likely starter QB Matt Moore needs another target in the passing game and the Panthers are in definite need of a spark of special teams. Benn fits both of these roles.
The 6′2″ Benn is a strong possession receiver who uses his body well, and has good speed. He needs to improve his hands and release at the line, but this can come over time. 1st year WRs likely do very little for their team as they learn the NFL game, so it gives the Panthers the opportunity to resign Muhsin Muhammad and have Benn used as a KR while he learns the position. Furthermore, he is regarded as one of the best blocking WRs in the 2010 draft, which is of vital importance to the Panthers’ running game. Finally he was a successful special teams player returning 10 kicks for 290 yards, including one 90 yd TD and the Panthers are in need of a reliable KR.
I see Benn as a slightly risky pick, but with a lot of upside and potential. The Panthers can’t keep relying on their rapidly aging WR corps to carry the load forever and with Benn’s blocking ability it would ease the loss of Muhsin Muhammad when he does retire, who is one of the best blocking WRs in the NFL.
By Ben on Feb 20, 2010
Carolina traded the pick because they dont have cap room for 1st round selection. Until they get ride of peppers it will stay that why. But good article and good pick. Nice to dream you know.
By Jeff on Mar 22, 2010
Way too high for Arrelious Benn. Definately more value in the 2nd round with someone like Demaryius Thomas or Brandan LeFell at 48. With the 16th pick we could have addressed the DL depth with someone like Pierre-Paul, Dunlap or Odrick.
By James R Dator on Mar 22, 2010
I understand where you’re coming from Jeff, I do agree it’s a tad high.
In my defense, however, this ‘what if’ pick was made well before the over 30 purge occurred. We still had Kemo and Lewis when I made this selection and WR looked like the most pressing issue.
If I had a do-over I would definitely look at the defensive line. That being said, I don’t think I would go DE in the first. Jason Pierre-Paul and Dunlap both scare me. Pierre-Paul looks like a workout warrior, and Dunlap has questions regarding his effort. Odrick would likely be the pick.