Memphis defensive tackle Dontari Poe is tentatively expected to be drafted in the first round. But not because of his game-day performances. Because of his potential as a developmental project.
After Carolina coach Ron Rivera’s pre-draft presser, we can pretty safely say Poe isn’t headed to the defensive tackle-needy Panthers.
“We’ll decide who fits us best and who’s going to help us immediately,” Rivera said, per ESPN’s Pat Yasinskas. “We’re not taking a guy early to have him develop. We’re taking a guy early to put him on the field and have him help us right away.”
Pro scouts believe Poe was unimpressive on tape, and NFL Network’s Mike Mayock has described him as a classic “boom or bust” prospect.
At least with their first-round pick, that’s not that Rivera is looking for.