In the first round of this year's NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers made a move to add another threat in the passing game for Pro Bowl quarterback Cam Newton to throw to next season with the selection of former Maryland wide receiver D.J. Moore.

The rookie is expected to take up a significant role in the offense alongside Devin Funchess in hopes the duo can develop into a formidable combo for Newton to depend upon. According to Max Henson of Panthers.com, Moore has appeared more than prepared to step into a prominent role in the passing attack in his first season.

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For what it’s worth, the first-round pick looked more than ready to contribute during spring practices. There will be the typical rookie growing pains, but it’s clear Moore can help the offense immediately. He brings a unique skill set to the receiver group with his ability to make people miss and turn quick passes into long gains. The Panthers want to tap into that kind of weapon as much as possible.

Carolina is counting on more to provide an immediate impact as his steady showing in the offseason has created more optimism around the team that he can prove his value out of the gate. There will be some stretches where he struggles to adjust, but his ability on the field could quickly become noticeable.

He s coming off a strong 2017 campaign with Maryland where he set the school record with 80 receptions for 1,033 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 12 games played. This helped him earn First-Team All-Big Ten honors along with being selected as the Big Ten Receiver of the Year. Where he has had the most success is in the slot as his speed and big-play ability has shown out to be most effective in that spot.

Moore will have a chance to provide another element to the passing game alongside wide receivers Funchess and Torrey Smith as well as Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen. The fact that he has made a strong impression so far in the offseason could set the table for a highly productive rookie campaign.