The Carolina Panthers selected cornerback Chau Smith-Wade from Washington State with the 157th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Smith-Wade, who measures 5-9 1/2 and weighs 184 pounds, had no interceptions during the regular season but managed two in the Senior Bowl. He is noted for his ability to play both outside and in the slot, as well as on special teams, and can compete for the main backup cornerback job. Despite his lack of elite size, speed, and strength, he is recognized for his agility and tough-minded approach. The Panthers, who also have an upcoming home game in Germany, had the pick announced by offensive lineman Chandler Zavala from Germany. This selection does not prevent the Panthers from potentially signing other players such as Stephon Gilmore.
The #Panthers went after a Senior Bowl standout with their fifth-round pick, taking Washington State cornerback Chau Smith-Wade at No. 157. Latest in the Day 3 tracker: https://t.co/jTEzCKc6am
#Panthers select Chau Smith-Wade at No. 157 overall in 2024 NFL draft https://t.co/aYD4ugTVwp
Chau Smith-Wade (5-9 1/2, 184) had 0 INTs during the season last year, then two in the Sr. Bowl. He can play outside and in the slot, as well as special teams. Also of note: This won't preclude the Panthers from signing Stephon Gilmore.
#Panthers select cornerback Chau Smith-Wade out of Washington State with the 157th pick. But the headline: seeing OL Chandler Zavala announce the pick from Germany (where the Panthers will play a home game in 2024). https://t.co/qZBzlvByWX
The #Panthers finally selected a cornerback. Washington State DB Chau Smith-Wade, who can compete for the main backup CB job behind Horn and Jackson -- or maybe someone else?
Panthers drafted a CB: Washington State's Chau Smith-Wade at 157. @dpbrugler: "Smith-Wade must adapt a more disciplined approach in both coverage & run support to mask his lack of elite size, speed and strength, but he is a loose-moving and tough-minded athlete."