Panthers depth chart: Can DT spot set the tone in 2020?

The projected DT starters

The Carolina Panthers depth chart at defensive tackle centers around two players who have the potential to become a devastating combination in 2020. No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown and the returning Kawann Short will be at the attacking forefront on the line of scrimmage. And putting them together is a mouth-watering proposition that could see some instant results.

Brown thoroughly impressed the Panthers draft team during the evaluation process. And they stuck to their guns despite the presence of linebacker Isaiah Simmons after the former Clemson standout slipped out of the top five.

The Auburn product penned a fully guaranteed rookie deal worth more than $23.6 million. So it will be up to the player to ensure the Panthers made the right call by taking him with their top-ten selection.

Putting him alongside returning veteran Short is going to do wonders for his overall development. While the player ended his 2019 season early on injured reserve. There is real hope that he can return to his old self in what is a critical season relating to his overall future with the franchise.

Both Brown and Short warrant significant attention on the interior and seem to eat up some substantial space on any given down. This will also be a substantial benefit to the likes of Brian Burns, Stephen Weatherly, Shaq Thompson, and second-round pick Yetur Gross-Matos in their bid to secure some quality sack numbers in 2020.

The Panthers were lackluster at best against the run last season. It would be a huge surprise if the presence of Brown and Short did not improve this area dramatically in 2020.