Matt Corral looked the part of a first-round NFL quarterback during his incredible 2021 season. However, he didn't hear his name called on Thursday night as only one signal-caller heard their name in the first-round Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett — as he was selected 20th overall by the Steelers.
A report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport alleges that the former Ole Miss QB's slide was due to "off-the-field" issues that involved alcohol.
“He dealt with a multitude of issues including alcohol and related issues,” Rapoport said. “He admitted publicly to battling depression. He has had ‘unreliable behavior’ off the field and he really, really struggled in some interviews with teams.
“That said, the talent is enough to make the Carolina Panthers take its shot with Corral.”
That doesn't seem to concern his new head coach Matt Rhule whose Carolina Panthers selected Corral in the third round with the 94th overall pick. Rhule said he would've drafted him earlier if he got the chance and said he appreciates his openness about his struggles.
“Everyone in their life goes through things, and we do a really good job of trying to delineate between people who have an issue or problem that can’t be overcome, with people who are going through something in their lives,’’ Rhule said. “I don’t know about you, but when I was 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, I certainly went through things."
“I really respect people who have been through things and are powerful enough, and open enough, to talk about them, and Matt is definitely one of those guys."
Corral should have every chance to win the starting job in Carolina this season, with only Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker in the QB room. They traded up for Corral immediately after a report was released that the Panthers failed to reach a deal with Baker Mayfield.
Corral threw for 8,287 yards, 57 touchdowns and 23 interceptions on 67.3% passing over the course of his collegiate career.
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