NFL Draft '08 Review -
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Photo - Runner Jonathan Stewart - Oregon

The Panthers selected runner Jonathan Stewart in the first round and see him as a key component in their ground game with starter DeAngelo Williams. Stewart should be 100% by training camp from toe surgery. They traded back into the first round with the Eagles for their #2 and #4 picks this year and next year’s #1 pick to select OT Jeff Otah with the 19th overall selection. It was an extremely high price to pay but they felt he was a player they needed to make the offense work. He can play either side and has a good chance to start as a rookie with a good training camp. With their two 3rd round selections, they chose CB Chris Godfrey and LB Dan Connor. Godfrey is a good athlete with experience in both man and zone coverage. He will press for time in the nickel package immediately and should start within a few seasons. Connor is an instinctive defender with versatility and experience. He figures to press for a starting position in camp and could eventually start at either any position though the Mike spot in his best fit.