Carolina Panthers Draft: Auburn DT Derrick Brown goes No. 7

The Carolina Panthers have a new presence of their defensive line interior with the arrival of Auburn’s one-man wrecking machine Derrick Brown.

The Carolina Panthers have boosted their defensive front by selecting Auburn standout Derrick Brown with the No. 7 pick.

The organization desperately needed reinforcements in the trenches and now possess a player with a Pro Bowl ceiling to put alongside Kawann Short and Brian Burns.

This news received a mixed reaction from Panthers’ fans. Mainly due to Clemson’s sensational linebacker Isaiah Simmons still being on the board.

Brown was a devastating presence for the Tigers throughout his college career. He also shone brightly during the evaluation process.

He is a do-it-all presence on the defensive line who is equally adept in running or passing downs. The Panthers were predicted by many to take the prospect in mock drafts, with ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. stating the franchise is getting a steal regarding the player.

Brown has everything a team looks for in a defensive end. He is fast, agile and is a formidable presence to shift off the block. The prospect will look to transform a Panthers’ defense that struggled to get to the quarterback in 2020.

Speculation regarding a possible trade down to acquire more selections did not materialize. This might be something that Carolina’s decision-makers decide to do with their No. 38 pick if there is not a cornerback or linebacker that takes their fancy.

Brown was a unanimous first-team All-American and SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2019. He recorded 33 tackles, four sacks, and two forced fumbles and was a disruptive force on almost every down.

The defense was expected to be a high priority for the Panthers heading into the draft following the departures of key figures such as Gerald McCoy, Dontari Poe, Vernon Butler, and James Bradberry. Luke Kuechly also announced his shock retirement, leaving some noticeable holes all over the field.

Brown’s arrival ensures one of these is now filled and this represents a high-end selection that can reap some significant rewards in the years to come.