Carolina Panthers: Will A.J Epenesa make it to pick No. 38?

What can Epenesa bring to the Panthers?

The Carolina Panthers could do far worse than adding someone like A.J. Epenesa to their defensive front. He is a powerful rusher who has the potential become a dominant pass-rushing presence at the next level.

It would be no surprise to see the Panthers take him with one of their first two selections next week. But whether the player will be around by the time the organization picks at No. 38 remains to be seen.

Epenesa certainly has the potential to pick up some of the load left by the exodus from Carolina’s defensive front during the offseason. He has freakish strength that more than makes up for his relative lack of burst compared to some of the more elite players currently plying their trade in the NFL.

Adding Epenesa into the fold would be a very welcome addition to the Panthers’ defense. The franchise is going to need to strengthen this area of the field enormously by the time competitive action rolls around.

If they wait until their second-round selection in the hope of drafting Epenesa, they might be out of luck if a particular franchise has become enamored with what he can bring to the pros. If Carolina is fortunate enough to acquire the former Hawkeye, then they are going to be getting a high-character individual and an exceptionally hard worker who is only going to get better with more experience.

Trading back from No. 7 to acquire more selections than the eight Carolina currently boasts. If the decision-makers within the organization decide to go in this direction, they can target Epenesa with a mid-to-late first-rounder to ensure they acquire his services.