6 linebackers the Panthers could draft in 2020
By Dean Jones
Patrick Queen – (LSU)
One of the top linebacker prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft is former LSU standout Patrick Queen. He has all the speed, athleticism and nastiness you normally associate with a player operating at the position.
He enjoyed a phenomenal final season with the national championship-winning Tigers that has propelled him into first-round consideration. Queen is a highly motivated individual and is a useful asset for a defense in a three-down capacity.
Queen notched 85 combined tackles, three sacks, two pass deflections, and an interception during his final year in the college system. This played a huge role in the Tigers’ success and all bodes well for his chances at the next level.
The player projects to be a day-one starter even though he appears a little undersized for most inside linebackers. Queen’s quickness to the point of attack is exemplary and he has a fantastic nous of locating danger and finishing off his tackles.
His communication on the field is another element to his game that sets him apart from most prospects entering the NFL this year. If the Carolina Panthers are intent of finding their replacement for Luke Kuechly later this month, they could do far worse than taking Queen.
The prospect might not warrant the No.7 selection. But the Panthers might want to trade down to acquire more picks and this puts Queen on their radar.