Panthers 2021 Draft: Micah Parsons heads star-studded bye week mock
By Dean Jones
Pick No. 5: Landon Dickerson – OL (Alabama)
As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers have to improve their protection to stand any chance of becoming a postseason contender sooner rather than later. This is especially evident on the interior, with some cracks now beginning to show after a positive start overall.
It remains to be seen whether John Miller and Chris Reed will be extended. The Panthers could also release center Matt Paradis and save themselves some cap money, although putting together a completely new unit might do more harm than good.
Either way, Landon Dickerson is a solid pick here. He is versatile enough to play anywhere across the interior and the Alabama standout is equally adept in either run blocking or protecting in passing situations.
Pick No. 6: Daelin Hayes – EDGE (Notre Dame)
Generating consistent pressure is something the Panthers have struggled with at times this season. It has improved as the season’s gone on. But there is little doubt that more will be needed to improve their chances.
Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos will lead the charge in 2021. However, having someone like Daelin Hayes coming in on a rotational basis wouldn’t hurt whatsoever. The edge rusher has been a consistent performer for Notre Dame, recording 20.5 sacks over the last four seasons.
He is physically imposing enough to step up to the next level and it looks like his shoulder injury that ended his 2019 season early is now behind him.