Braden Fiske, Ben Sinnott named Panthers’ ‘ideal’ top 2 picks for 2024 draft

They may not be a part of the first round this spring, but the Carolina Panthers still have an exciting opportunity to improve their roster at the beginning of Day 2. So, with the 33rd and 39th overall selections in hand, what pair of choices would seize that opportunity most?

NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter recently named the ideal top two picks for each team. For the Panthers, he has Florida State defensive tackle Braden Fiske at No. 33 and Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott at No. 39.

Reuter writes:

Signing Derrick Brown to a major extension locks down one spot along the Panthers’ defensive line. Fiske’s athleticism and hustle to the ball makes him a natural to play next to Brown at the 5-technique. The Panthers may still be able to select him if they trade down a few spots to acquire extra mid-round picks. Sinnott is an underappreciated prospect whose quickness from his stance, strong hands and skills as a move blocker compare favorably to last year’s rookie sensation, Sam LaPorta.

Fiske played four of his first five collegiate campaigns at Western Michigan, where he amassed 13.5 sacks over 42 games. He finished up in Tallahassee this past year, recording 6.0 sacks en route to a second-team All-ACC nod.

Sinnott, who also has chops at the fullback position, played at Kansas State from 2020 to 2023. The 6-foot-4, 250-pounder ended his stay with 82 receptions for 1,138 yards and 10 touchdowns.