Exploring some potential backfield choices for the Carolina Panthers.
The Carolina Panthers aren’t in urgent need of a running back in the 2024 NFL Draft, but they might think about adding one to complement Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders.
Given their early priorities on wide receivers, centers, pass rushers, and cornerbacks, the Panthers likely won’t turn their attention to running backs until the fourth round. Let’s consider some prospects expected to be on the board for day three:
Braelon Allen (Wisconsin)
From the moment Allen arrived in Madison, he made a significant impact. As a freshman, he rushed for 1,268 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry. While he’s had impressive production over three years, his potential at the next level is uncertain. He could be a solid starter, but will he reach All-Pro level? It’s possible. There’s also a chance he might not meet expectations, but at the very least, he looks like a dependable second option.
Blake Corum (Michigan)
Corum might not be the largest player on the field, but he’s certainly impactful. While he can occasionally be hasty in choosing his running lanes, he accelerates quickly and always manages to gain extra yards. He had a standout career at Michigan, amassing 3,737 yards and 58 touchdowns on 675 carries.
Audric Estime (Notre Dame)
Estime is precisely the kind of back the Panthers could use—a power runner. While he might not be suited to be an every-down back, he could excel as a short-yardage and goal-line specialist, handling the tough carries. Last season, Estime put up 1,341 yards and 18 touchdowns, impressive stats for a back without top-end speed.
Jaylen Wright (Tennessee)
Over the past two seasons at Tennessee, Wright has racked up close to 2,000 rushing yards, maintaining an average of 6.2 yards per carry throughout his career. In 2023, he posted an impressive 7.4 yards per attempt, which ranked 2nd nationally, and showed increased productivity in the passing game with 22 catches for 141 yards. While he’s had occasional ball security issues, if he addresses that, he has the potential to be a long-term starter in the league. Additionally, he’s one of the quicker backs in this year’s draft class.
