4 takeaways from Panthers’ padded practices at training camp so far

Derrick Brown is a beast

There might be some lofty expectations on the shoulders of Derrick Brown entering the NFL. But this is something he is clearly taking in his stride.

The No. 7 overall pick has an exceptionally high ceiling. His time at Auburn was littered with accomplishments. And this had some projecting the defensive tackle as the best player in this year’s draft class.

Brown will have a bullseye on his back from the word go. But judging by the start he has made to training camp. Then it is a challenge he is sure to relish.

The lineman has made a number of outstanding plays during padded practice so far. His move on center Matt Paradis to stop All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey in his tracks with one hand was nothing short of extraordinary. And his fierce competitiveness is something that is really coming across on almost every down.

If Brown can make a telling contribution early, then it is going to be an enormous asset for the Carolina Panthers. His partnership with veteran Pro Bowler Kawann Short on the interior has the scope to completely transform their run defense. And it is hard not to have been impressed by what the rookie has shown during the early stages of training camp.