Panthers draft: Areas of concern for Carolina’s top 4 picks

Derrick Brown – Pass-rushing

Much has been made about Derrick Brown’s lack of pass-rushing production in college. Some experts have questioned whether the prospect can make a successful transition to the NFL and become anything more than a space-eater in run defense.

The Panthers draft process undoubtedly would have identified this and watched the film. Brown saw double-teams on almost every down in college, which was one of the key components regarding his relative lack of production from a statistical perspective,

It is going to be much harder for NFL teams to double Brown in the Panthers 4-3 base defense. Having the incoming prospect line up alongside Kawann Short, Brian Burns and Stephen Weatherly is going to do his chances of a prolific career the world of good.

Brown himself is fully aware of the questions surrounding his ability to get to the quarterback at the next level. He has been vocal in trying to dispel the myth and providing he can make the necessary adjustments whenever training camp gets underway, there is nothing to be too concerned about.

Big things are expected of Brown, who signed a fully guaranteed four-year deal worth $23.61 million this week. With big money comes large expectations. But the player has broad shoulders and his potential is limitless if he lives up to his lofty ceiling.