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Panthers Go 'Big' With First Round NFL Draft Pick

Associated Press

The NFL completed the first round of their draft last night. And, the Carolina Panthers made a “big” pick.

The Panthers certain had a void to fill at the wide receiver position, after releasing their all-time leading receiver Steve Smith in the offseason. So when it came their turn to pick…

“With the 28th pick in the 2014 NFL draft, the Carolina Panthers select Kelvin Benjamin, Wide receiver, Florida State.”

Kelvin Benjamin had over 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns last season at Florida State. But Panthers General Manager Dave Gettleman talked about Benjamin having a huge upside, as well as just being huge.

“You can’t coach six-five, two-forty.”

Charlotte Observer Sports Columnist Tom Sorensen says that 6-foot-5, 240 pound frame is something the Panthers haven’t had before at wide receiver.

“You know, Kelvin Benjamin is as big as Cam Newton. And the Panthers have never had a receiver that big who could play. If he is what Gettleman believes, this guy is going to be a star.”

And the Panthers could use a star at wide receiver. In addition to losing Steve Smith in the offseason, wide receivers Brandon LaFell, Ted Ginn Jr. and Domenik Hixon also left the team.