Day Three RBs the Panthers Could Target

Looking at a few backfield options for the Carolina Panthers.

The Carolina Panthers aren’t desperate to take a running back in the 2024 NFL Draft, but they could consider adding one to the mix to go along with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders.

With the early focus being on wide receivers, centers, pass rushers, and corners, the Panthers probably won’t start looking at running backs until the fourth round.

Today, we look at a few prospects who should be available on day three.

Braelon Allen (Wisconsin)

Allen was an impact player from the first day he stepped foot in Madison. As a true freshman, he ran for 1,268 yards and 12 touchdowns while averaging 6.8 yards per attempt. Despite the high level production over three years, I’m not sure what to make of him at the next level. He’ll be a good back, but how good? All-Pro caliber? Maybe. I think there’s a scenario in which he’s a bit of a disappointment, but he’s at-worst a really solid No. 2.

Blake Corum (Michigan)

Corum isn’t the biggest guy in the world, but he packs a punch. He can be a little impatient when it comes to finding the hole up front but he gets downhill in a hurry and is always falling forward. Big-time production during his days at Michigan, totaling 3,737 yards and 58 touchdowns on 675 carries.

Audric Estime (Notre Dame)

Estime is the exact type of back the Panthers need - a thumper. He may not have a future as an every down back, but he can fill a role as a short yardage/goal line back who can do the dirty work. This past season, Estime rushed for 1,341 yards and 18 touchdowns - pretty impressive numbers for someone who does not possess much speed.

Jaylen Wright (Tennessee)

Wright has rushed for nearly 2,000 yards over the last two seasons at Tennessee, averaging 6.2 yards per carry for his career. In 2023, he rushed for 7.4 yards per attempt (ranked 2nd nationally) and became more productive in the passing game with 22 receptions for 141 yards. Ball security has been an issue for him at times, but assuming he cleans that up he’ll be a starter in this league for a long time. He’s also one of the faster backs in this class.