Power ranking rookie performances at Panthers camp so far
By Dean Jones
3. Stantley Thomas-Oliver III – CB
To say that Stantley Thomas-Oliver III has made an outstanding start to training camp would be something of an understatement. The Carolina Panthers might have a real steal on their hands with the cornerback. And his level of consistency is something that has really stood out.
Thomas-Oliver has been playing corner for two years, so he is still a work in progress. However, what the player does have going for him is exceptional athletic traits and an instinct that has allowed him to make big plays so far.
This might see Thomas-Oliver make the starting rotation sooner rather than later. He is also going to be a significant asset to call upon on special teams during his transition to the next level.
2. Jeremy Chinn – DB
Jeremy Chinn has been exactly as advertised so far. He is versatile, explosive, and bigger physically than many expected. This all bodes well for the second-round pick making his mark from Week 1 and his ceiling could not be higher.
One problem that Panthers have is just where they slot Chinn into the lineup. He can play in multiple positions, so it might just be a case of putting him all over the field initially in a trial and error format with no preseason games to determine his best spot.
It would be a huge shock if Chinn did not become a valuable member of Carolina’s defense in no time at all. And he is a potential NFL star in the making.
1. Derrick Brown – DT
Derrick Brown has been nothing short of sensational during camp so far. His dominance on the line of scrimmage has made him a nightmare to block. And this has only heightened expectations regarding the defensive tackle in 2020 and beyond.
He is a physically imposing individual who has the quickness and footwork to match. There was plenty of excitement surrounding Brown finally making his way onto the field following a disrupted offseason period. And he has more than lived up to his billing to date.
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The No. 7 overall pick has a Pro Bowl ceiling coming into the NFL. This could get even higher if Brown hits the ground running.