Carolina Panthers: Steve Smith predicts Isaiah Simmons with No. 7 pick

Legendary wide receiver Steve Smith is expecting the Carolina Panthers to select Clemson’s exciting linebacker Isaiah Simmons in the 2020 NFL Draft.

One of the greatest players in Carolina Panthers’ history has made his prediction as to who the franchise is going to take with their No. 7 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Steve Smith, who is widely regarded as one of the best draft selections in franchise history, predicted Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons as the man to led Carolina’s defense into the future.

Simmons has risen considerably up NFL Draft boards after an outstanding spell in college. He is a national champion and has been nothing short of exceptional during the evaluation process.

Speaking on NFL Network, Smith had this to say on the upcoming decision awaiting the Panthers.

"I believe this is a great pick for them (Carolina Panthers), who last year in 2019 were 23rd defensively whereas years prior to that they were in the top-ten. This would offset the unexpected retirement of tackling machine Luke Kuechly and could get the defense back to the same sort of standard during Ron Rivera’s early days under new head coach Matt Rhule. It will also allow the offense to make some mistakes."

Simmons is a versatile player who has the capability of impacting every area of the defense. He is athletic enough to line up at safety and has a supreme set of pass-rushing moves to call upon.

The former Tiger is outstanding in coverage and has exceptional athleticism. This was demonstrated to full effect at the NFL Scouting Combine with a blistering performance.

This left scouts salivating at the prospect of drafting Simmons, who might not even be around by the time the Panthers select at No. 7. Much will depend on the expected quarterback scramble and whether or not the Detroit Lions and New York Giants trade out of their respective spots in the top five.

Smith was taken in the third round of the 2001 NFL Draft and became one of the most tenacious wide receivers to ever play in the NFL. He enjoyed a glittering career with the Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens that spanned 16 seasons.

The Hall of Fame candidate finished his career with 1,031 receptions, 14,731 receiving yards, 81 touchdowns and a yards-per-catch average of 14.3.