The History Of The 8th Pick In The NFL Draft And It’s Significance For The Panthers
The 8th overall pick in the NFL Draft has a rich history of producing standout players, and for the Carolina Panthers, it has become a spot of opportunity and impact.
Over the years, NFL teams have used this pick to secure future stars, and the Panthers themselves have reaped the rewards of intelligent selections at this position.
Despite battling injuries early in his career, Horn has shown flashes of becoming a shutdown corner, providing a key piece for the Panthers’ defense moving forward.
Looking back a little further, the 8th pick in 2017 brought one of the Panthers’ most electrifying playmakers of all time, Christian McCaffrey.
The versatile running back quickly cemented himself as a game-changer, becoming just the third player in NFL history to record 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards in a single season (2019).
Though McCaffrey has since moved on to the San Francisco 49ers, his contributions during his time in Carolina remain a highlight of the franchise’s draft success.
Across the league, the significance of the 8th pick can’t be understated.
For the Panthers, their focus this year will be on finding the next difference-maker who can add immediate value to the team.
Whether it’s a dominant defensive player or a dynamic offensive weapon, Carolina has a golden opportunity to build on their history of successful choices at number eight.
Take a look below at The History Of The 8th Pick In The NFL Draft And It’s Significance For The Panthers.
Michael Penix Jr. made a notable transition to the NFL in 2024, joining the Atlanta Falcons as a rookie quarterback after an impressive college career at Washington. Known for his powerful arm and pocket presence, Penix quickly adapted to the pro game, delivering clutch performances and energizing the Falcons’ offense. Throughout his rookie season, he showcased his ability to read defenses, connect on deep throws, and make plays under pressure. Penix’s leadership and poise established him as a key piece of the Falcons’ future, giving fans and the franchise hope for sustained success in the years to come.
2. 2023 – Bijan Robinson, Falcons
Bijan Robinson has quickly cemented himself as one of the NFL’s most electrifying running backs. A star at the University of Texas, Robinson dazzled with his combination of speed, agility, and power, earning unanimous All-American honors and the prestigious Doak Walker Award as the nation’s top running back. Selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, Robinson immediately became the heart of Atlanta’s offense.
Known for his vision and ability to create yards after contact, he made an impact both as a runner and receiver. His versatility helped transform the Falcons’ attack, making him one of the most dynamic dual-threat backs in the league. With a strong work ethic and exciting playstyle, Bijan Robinson has quickly risen as a foundational piece for Atlanta’s future success.
3. 2022 – Drake London, Falcons
Drake London has emerged as a standout wide receiver in the NFL, known for his incredible size, athleticism, and playmaking ability. A product of the University of Southern California, London excelled at USC, earning Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2021 despite his season being cut short due to injury. His ability to dominate in contested catch situations and his versatility as a pass-catcher caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Selected 8th overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2022 NFL Draft, London quickly established himself as a key component of the Falcons’ offensive attack. His large frame and strong hands make him a reliable target in both red-zone opportunities and tough third-down situations. London’s knack for creating mismatches against defenders has solidified his role as one of the team’s top receiving threats and a foundational piece for Atlanta’s future success.
4. 2021 – Jaycee Horn, Panthers
Jaycee Horn has established himself as one of the NFL’s most promising young cornerbacks. A standout at the University of South Carolina, Horn was renowned for his physicality, elite man coverage skills, and ability to shut down top receivers. His impressive college performances earned him first-round selection by the Carolina Panthers as the 8th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Since entering the league, Horn has showcased his lockdown abilities, excelling in both zone and man coverage. Known for his agility, anticipation, and knack for making plays on the ball, he has been a key piece in anchoring the Panthers’ secondary. Despite facing some early injury setbacks, Horn’s tenacity and game-changing potential have made him a foundational player for Carolina’s defense and a rising star in the league.
5. 2020 – Isaiah Simmons, Cardinals
Isaiah Simmons is one of the NFL’s most versatile defenders, celebrated for his rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism. A standout at Clemson University, Simmons won the 2019 Butkus Award and was pivotal in Clemson’s national championship run, showcasing his ability to excel at multiple positions, including linebacker, safety, and even cornerback. His unique skill set made him a highly sought-after prospect, leading to his selection as the 8th overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Since entering the league, Simmons has thrived as a do-it-all defender, contributing in various roles across the Cardinals’ defense. His ability to cover tight ends, rush the passer, and play in space has made him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. Over time, Simmons has developed into a key playmaker, using his versatility to make game-changing plays. With his dynamic talent and adaptability, Simmons continues to be a foundational piece on any defense he suits up for.
6. 2019 – T.J. Hockenson, Lions
T.J. Hockenson has developed into one of the premier tight ends in the NFL, known for his exceptional blend of size, athleticism, and reliability as both a pass-catcher and blocker. A standout at the University of Iowa, Hockenson won the John Mackey Award in 2018, recognizing him as the nation’s top tight end. His all-around skill set and dominance at Iowa made him a top prospect, leading to his selection as the 8th overall pick by the Detroit Lions in the 2019 NFL Draft.
During his time with the Lions, Hockenson showcased his ability to stretch the field, dominate in the red zone, and make clutch plays in key moments. His breakout came in 2020 when he earned Pro Bowl honors, solidifying himself as one of the league’s best at his position. After being traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Hockenson quickly became a vital part of their offensive system. His consistency, route-running ability, and knack for making tough catches have made him a dependable target and a top-tier threat in today’s NFL.
7. 2018 – Roquan Smith, Bears
Roquan Smith has established himself as one of the NFL’s elite linebackers, known for his instinctive play, speed, and versatility. A standout at the University of Georgia, Smith won the 2017 Butkus Award as the nation’s best linebacker and played a crucial role in leading Georgia to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. His outstanding performances made him a highly coveted prospect, leading to his selection by the Chicago Bears as the 8th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Smith quickly made an impact in the NFL, becoming a key leader for the Bears’ defense. His ability to diagnose plays, cover sideline-to-sideline, and excel in pass coverage set him apart as a modern linebacker. Over multiple seasons with Chicago, he consistently ranked among the league leaders in tackles and earned All-Pro honors for his dominant play. After being traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, Smith seamlessly integrated into their defensive scheme, further solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s most complete linebackers. With his relentless work ethic and ability to shine in any role, Roquan Smith remains a game-changing force and a cornerstone of any defense he anchors.
8. 2017 – Christian McCaffrey, Panthers
Christian McCaffrey has solidified himself as one of the NFL’s most dynamic and versatile running backs. A standout at Stanford University, McCaffrey broke records and earned recognition as one of college football’s most electrifying players. In 2015, he was named a Heisman Trophy finalist after setting an NCAA record for all-purpose yards in a single season. His incredible ability to run, catch, and return the ball made him a top-tier prospect, leading to his selection by the Carolina Panthers as the 8th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Since entering the NFL, McCaffrey has redefined the running back position with his rare combination of elusiveness, route-running, and pass-catching skills. He became only the third player in league history to achieve 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in a single season, cementing his status as an offensive juggernaut. Known for his work ethic and football IQ, McCaffrey has been a consistent game-changer, earning multiple All-Pro selections.
After being traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2022, McCaffrey seamlessly integrated into their offense, showcasing his ability to excel in versatile roles. Whether he’s running between the tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, or splitting out wide, McCaffrey’s unique skill set has made him one of the league’s most valuable and feared playmakers. His impact on the field goes far beyond stats, as he exemplifies consistency, adaptability, and the ability to deliver in clutch moments.
9. 2016 – Jack Conklin, Titans
Jack Conklin rose from a walk-on at Michigan State to an All-American, helping lead the Spartans to a College Football Playoff in 2015. Drafted 8th overall by the Titans in 2016, he earned First-Team All-Pro honors as a rookie, excelling in run-blocking and pass protection. With the Browns since 2020, Conklin has been a key leader, strengthening their offensive line and driving a dominant ground game. Known for his toughness and consistency, he remains one of the NFL’s top tackles.
10. 2015 – Vic Beasley, Falcons
Vic Beasley made his mark as a standout pass rusher at Clemson, earning All-American honors and finishing as the school’s all-time sack leader. Selected 8th overall by the Falcons in the 2015 NFL Draft, he peaked in 2016, leading the league with 15.5 sacks and helping Atlanta reach Super Bowl LI. Named First-Team All-Pro that year, Beasley’s speed and explosiveness made him a feared edge rusher. Though his production dipped in later seasons, his dominance during Atlanta’s 2016 campaign remains a career highlight.
11. 2014 – Justin Gilbert, Browns
Justin Gilbert excelled at Oklahoma State as a dynamic cornerback and kick returner, earning All-American honors and the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award in 2013. Drafted 8th overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2014, Gilbert entered the NFL with high expectations. Despite showing flashes of his athleticism and playmaking ability, his professional career was marked by inconsistency and limited impact. After brief stints with the Browns and Steelers, Gilbert’s time in the league ended, but his college achievements remain a testament to his talent.
12. 2013 – Tavon Austin, Rams
Tavon Austin electrified college football at West Virginia, earning All-American honors for his versatility as a wide receiver, rusher, and return specialist. Drafted 8th overall by the Rams in 2013, Austin brought his speed and agility to the NFL, scoring as a receiver, runner, and returner. Though his production never fully matched his potential, he remained a dynamic playmaker with stints on several teams, including the Cowboys, Packers, and Bills. Austin’s ability to create explosive plays in multiple phases of the game defined his career.
13. 2012 – Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins
Ryan Tannehill transitioned from wide receiver to quarterback at Texas A&M, showcasing athleticism and earning first-round selection by the Dolphins in 2012. After an up-and-down tenure in Miami, Tannehill revitalized his career with the Titans, earning NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2019 and leading the team to the AFC Championship Game. Known for his efficiency, leadership, and mobility, he has been instrumental in Tennessee’s offensive success, combining poised passing with timely rushing plays.
14. 2011 – Jake Locker, Titans
Jake Locker was a standout quarterback at the University of Washington, known for his athleticism and leadership. Drafted 8th overall by the Tennessee Titans in 2011, he showcased moments of promise with his strong arm and mobility. However, injuries and inconsistency limited his impact during a brief four-year NFL career. Despite retiring early, Locker remains remembered for his competitive spirit and contributions to rebuilding Washington’s football program.
15. 2010 – Rolando McClain
Rolando McClain was a dominant linebacker at Alabama, earning All-American honors and leading the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 2009. Drafted 8th overall by the Raiders in 2010, McClain displayed his physicality and football IQ early in his career. After a turbulent stint in Oakland, he briefly retired before returning to the NFL with the Cowboys, where he played a key role in bolstering their defense. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, off-field issues and suspensions ultimately shortened his time in the league. McClain’s college legacy remains a testament to his talent and leadership on the field.
