The NFL Draft kicks off tonight as fans, league officials, team personnel and a few prospects descend upon Nashville, Tennessee awaiting to see what their future holds. All of the testing is complete, the tapes have been watched and for NFL hopefuls – only the waiting remains. Barring a trade, the Carolina Panthers will announce their newest team member with pick No. 16 overall.
Carolina has needs at a variety of different positions and general manager Marty Hurney could justify using the initial pick on many of them. Defensive end, offensive tackle, safety and linebacker are all possibilities, in addition to running back, defensive tackle and even receiver – all of which may be targeted later in the draft.