The Carolina Panthers made a splash to begin Day 2 of the NFL Draft, trading up 10 spots with the Seattle Seahawks to select Ole Miss offensive tackle Greg Little in the second round with the 37th overall pick.
In addition to Carolina’s original pick at 47, the Panthers sent their compensatory third-round pick (77th overall) to Seattle.
Little, 21, was a First-Team All-SEC selection in 2018, and started every game at left tackle for the Rebels over the last two seasons.
“He’ll have to come in and compete, but we feel very fortunate to get a guy with his talent,” general manager Marty Hurney said. “He’s had a lot of experience.”
Little will join an offensive line that suffered through a lot of injuries in 2018, and includes former Pro Bowl right tackle Daryl Williams and tackle Taylor Moton.
Little said he’s ready to help out quarterback Cam Newton.
“I’m fired up. I take pride in keeping people safe. And I’m going to keep him safe,” he said.
Panthers head coach Ron Rivera and Hurney said after Carolina selected Little that Moton has been impressive at left guard.
Moton could also remain at right tackle and Williams backs up Little or vice-versa.
Barring any more trades, the Panthers will pick in the third round at pick No. 100.