4 Panthers Undrafted Free Agents Who Can Make the 53-Man Roster
By Joe Summers
The Panthers had a strong showing in the 2024 NFL Draft, reshaping the offense's foundation by bringing in pass-catchers Xavier Legette and Ja'Tavion Sanders while landing their running back of the future in Jonathon Brooks.
Carolina has done a nice job after the draft as well, signing several promising undrafted free agents. The organization will start rookie minicamp on May 10th, giving players their first opportunity to potentially earn a roster spot as the team tries to compete in a weak NFC South in 2024-25.
With that in mind, let's look at several undrafted free agents with a legitimate chance to make the 53-man roster.
4 Panthers Undrafted Free Agents Who Can Make the Roster
1. Willie Drew - CB, Virginia State
The Panthers have holes in the secondary and Willie Drew is a prospect who could fill out the cornerback room while contributing on special teams. He started his career at James Madison before transferring to Virginia State, compiling 37 deflected passes, 26 pass breakups, 11 interceptions, a fumble recovery and even a TD over three seasons.
He's got long arms and ran an impressive 4.48 40-yard dash. While he struggles against big, physical receivers, his high-end speed gives Drew the ability to handle fast wideouts on the outside.
Drew was named the 2023 CIAA Defensive Player of the Year and was seen as a potential mid-to-late draft pick. For Morgan to land Drew as an undrafted free agent is a big win for the Panthers and I think he'll get every opportunity to make the roster.
He's got a lanky frame but great cover instincts with an impressive ability to change direction and make plays on the ball. Drew spent six years in college, which could be viewed as a negative, though I like the experience he brings to the position.
While I wouldn't expect a major contribution in his rookie season, Drew is a player who could develop into a nice depth piece in the secondary over the next couple of years.