Carolina Panthers: How Kawann Short can help Derrick Brown

Stud defensive lineman Kawann Short has a big responsibility in 2020, both on the field and with Carolina Panthers first-round pick Derrick Brown.

There are plenty of expectations for first-round pick Derrick Brown to make an instant impression with the Carolina Panthers. He would be wise to seek the counsel of a productive veteran to aid with the early stages of his development.

The No. 7 overall selection out of Auburn was picked ahead of Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons by the Panthers. This represented a huge vote of confidence in the defensive tackle and something he needs to start repaying at the earliest possible opportunity.

Brown is an incredible prospect who has that rare ability to eat up space on any given down. He is a formidable presence in run support and although his pass-rushing does need a little work at the next level. There is nothing to suggest the prospect cannot improve this particular area of his game.

The Panthers will be implementing a 4-3 base defensive scheme in 2020. This will put Brown alongside Kawann Short, who is set to make a full return to health after a frustrating 2019 campaign that ended with an early trip to injured reserve.

If Brown is looking for a role model as he adjusts to life in the NFL, then he should look no further than Short. Prior to his injury, the defensive lineman was a dominant figure and someone the 2020 first-rounder can aspire to be.

Both possess similar physical traits. Although Short is probably more adept at getting to the quarterback thanks to athleticism that defies his size. If Brown can learn and learn from the seven-year veteran then the sky is the limit.