Carolina Panthers NFL Draft post first-round highlights of Marty Hurney
Charles Johnson, DE – Round 3 (Pick No. 83)
Second in line to Peppers for the franchise lead in sacks is Charles Johnson. Another career Panthers player, Johnson flirted with the idea of leaving only to have the Giants convince him to stay.
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Battling injuries late in his career, Johnson was a dominant pass rusher and fixture along the defensive line for an entire decade. Earning a starting position upon the departure of Peppers, he recorded 11.5 sacks – the first of three seasons with double digits.
Initially a backup, then a starter who turned into a role player, Johnson was always willing to do whatever the team needed in order to be successful. A quality player and true team leader, his presence on the field, sidelines, locker room and meeting rooms has been missed.
Peppers helped to ease this burden last season but since both have now hung up their cleats, Hurney is tabbed with finding the next franchise pass rushing candidate. One of two potential positions to be targeted in the first-round, if his abilities to land productive picks early continues, it could be a record draft for Carolina.
dark. Next. Biggest Offseason Moves
Especially if a later pick blossoms into someone who plays their way onto this list in the future.