Carolina Panthers reportedly show interest in DT Ross Blacklock

The Carolina Panthers need to strengthen their defensive options in the NFL Draft, with TCU standout Ross Blacklock reportedly high on their shortlist.

It is no secret the Carolina Panthers are looking to bolster their options on the defensive side of the ball heading into the 2020 NFL Draft. A number of veteran players have departed the franchise this offseason and need to be replaced with fresh faces.

The Panthers invested heavily in their offense during free agency. But this has left them with threadbare depth on the other side of the ball. Dontari Poe, Gerald McCoy, and Vernon Butler have all moved on to pastures new, with perennial All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly announcing his retirement after eight outstanding seasons with the franchise.

They are expected to focus on defense heavily with their first few selections next week. And the Panthers have reportedly shown considerable interest in TCU’s impressive defensive tackle Ross Blacklock.

The player is projected to be a late first or early second-round pick in the Draft. Carolina held a video interview with Blacklock and is seen to be an instant upgrade on what they have at the position currently.

Much will depend on what the Panthers do with their No. 7 selection as to whether Blacklock is a realistic target for the organization. If they opt to go for a linebacker like Isaiah Simmons or a cornerback such as Jeff Okudah or CJ Henderson, then the tackle would be in play.

This is a gamble from the Panthers as there is no guarantee Blacklock will be around by the time Carolina makes the 38th overall pick. There is the option of trading down to acquire more picks and taking him in later in the first round.

Given the Panthers only have eight selections currently, this seems could be a way they go. But what would Blacklock bring to the franchise?