Here's a breakdown of the 2016 Carolina Panthers draft class and its progress after two weeks of training camp.
Vernon Butler, DT, first round: Coach Ron Rivera continues to call Butler a "work in progress" because the former Louisiana Tech star hasn’t consistently shown the ability to finish plays. But Butler is improving daily -- particularly with his pass rush -- and will be among the four-man rotation behind starters Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short.
James Bradberry, CB, second round: He doesn’t just wear the No. 24 that Pro Bowl corner Josh Norman did the past four seasons. He’s holding his own against a strong group of Carolina receivers a lot like Norman did -- minus the bravado -- and should be the starter on the left side.
Daryl Worley, CB, third round: If the season started today, he would be the starter on the right side. The former West Virginia star has played well enough and smart enough that Bene’ Benwikere, penciled in for this spot during the offseason, continues to spend most of his time at nickel.
Zack Sanchez, CB, fifth round: He was selected because the staff thought he had the skills to be a starting nickelback, but he also has shown solid skills on the outside. He’ll push Benwikere for playing time at the nickel if he continues to make plays like he has against Cam Newton and the first-team offense.
Beau Sandland, TE, seventh round: He’s locked in a good battle with Scott Simonson and undrafted free agent Braxton Deaver for the third tight end spot. For the moment, it appears Simonson has the edge in terms of being a more consistent route runner and receiver.
