6 defensive tackles the Panthers could draft in 2020
By Dean Jones
Javon Kinlaw – (South Carolina)
Javon Kinlaw is another prospect that the Carolina Panthers may take if they decide to trade down and acquire more picks. His 2019 play more than warrants a first-round selection as the player became a major disruptor for the Gamecocks.
His athletic ability defies a recorded size of 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds and this was further reflected in Kinlaw’s six sacks, 35 total tackles, two pass breakups, and a pair of fumble recoveries.
His explosiveness on the line of scrimmage is truly exceptional, as is his ability to identify blocking schemes, make things happen for himself, and free up space for others around him.
Kinlaw has surged up draft boards during the evaluation process. His rags to riches story is a fantastic one and can inspire other college recruits who are coming from the same background in the years to come.
He plays hard on every down and has the sort of urgency that NFL scouts are sure to be salivating over. While the No.7 pick might be reaching for Kinlaw, the Panthers’ decision-makers might decide to accumulate more than their eight current selections and that would put the player in play.
The prospect could even go in the top-ten given the hype surrounding him. Kinlaw’s skills are not as refined as Derrick Brown. But he has the chance to make a big impression at the next level in the right scheme.