Based on SPARQ scores, the Panthers' rookie class is the least athletic group of rookies in the NFL. Many might dismiss SPARQ scores and other analytics due to their reliance on NFL Combine testing, but more and more NFL teams are using them to look at how athletic a prospect is.
For years, people outside of the Raiders organization ridiculed the late Al Davis for drafting "workout warriors", while ignoring on-field performance. Recently, things have changed. Over the last few years, the Seahawks are using a formula to find their future stars. In fact, their Strength and Conditioning Coach, Chris Carlisle, helped develop Nike's SPARQ rating system.