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2016 NFL Mock Draft: Yarcho Mocks The First Round

By James Yarcho

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view as the Tennessee Titans make their pick in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view as the Tennessee Titans make their pick in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Jehu Chesson (86) can’t make the reception in the second half defended by Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Eli Apple (13) at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Jehu Chesson (86) can’t make the reception in the second half defended by Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Eli Apple (13) at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

87. . Cornerback. Ohio State. Eli Apple. 30. player

After rescinding the franchise tag and losing Josh Norman, the Panthers find themselves in need of a cornerback. One of the higher rated corners in Eli Apple is still waiting for them at the end of the first round. Apple is a good size at 6’1″ and won’t face the pressure of having to be a “shut down” guy. The pass rush generated by the Panthers’ front seven alleviates that from their secondary and was a big reason they let Norman walk.

Apple has a few kinks that will need to be addressed when you watch him. He can sometimes have difficulty reading quarterbacks, tends to grab on to receivers when he can’t locate the ball or gets beat, and takes some very bad angles at times when trying to square up a ball carrier. All fixable issues that Carolina’s coaches should be able to help him with. Apple and the Panthers are a solid fit together and, although he can’t replace Norman right away, he can grow into a very good corner in Carolina.

Next: Number Thirty-One: Denver Broncos

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