Carolina Panthers: Interest shown in Utah LB Francis Bernard
By Dean Jones
Linebacker is a position that the Carolina Panthers need to upgrade in the 2020 NFL Draft, and they have reportedly shown interest in development prospect Francis Bernard.
The Carolina Panthers are looking to boost their linebacker options heading into the 2020 NFL Draft. Utah standout Francis Bernard is reportedly high on their shortlist.
The prolific college player held a virtual interview with the Panthers’ front office during the evaluation process and is projected to be a mid-to-late round selection. There is plenty to work with regarding Bernard, who has some good technical skills that translate to the next level.
This is an area of significant need for the Panthers following the shock retirement of Luke Kuechly this offseason. The perennial All-Pro leaves a vast void at the second level of Carolina’s defense and a long-term replacement will need to be sought at the earliest opportunity.
While Bernard might not be a day-one starter in the NFL. There is a good chance he can earn a more prominent roster spot in the future if he develops his craft. He recorded 85 combined tackles, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and one pass deflection in 2019.
The Panthers also need more from a pass-rushing perspective after losing Gerald McCoy, Dontari Poe, and Vernon Butler in free agency. Bernard does not offer much on this front as yet. But he has good instincts and a quick burst that could prove useful in specialist situations.
Even if Carolina’s decision-makers decide to take a linebacker with one of their top-end Draft picks, they might still opt to bring in an additional development option that can contribute on special teams.
If that proves to be the case, then Bernard is a good option.