5 players the Panthers could have drafted instead of Greg Little
By Dean Jones
Dre’Mont Jones – DT
Dre’Mont Jones was taken in the third round by the Denver Broncos and the Carolina Panthers will get to see what they missed out on in Week 14. The defensive tackle has been allowed to develop at his own pace during his first two years at the next level and it’s evident from his performances that an incredibly bright future awaits the player providing he can avoid injuries.
Jones already has 6.5 sacks to his name – 3.5 of which have come this season – and this is an area where the Panthers have struggled to generate notable pressure in opposing backfields.
Carolina had other pressing needs at the time and was among the NFL leaders in quarterback takedowns in 2019. But it’s hard not to look at the former Ohio State standout and not think he couldn’t be of significant use to this current group.
Derrick Brown was selected No. 7 overall and looks set to be the anchor on Carolina’s defensive front for the next decade. Zach Kerr has also done well after Kawann Short went to injured/reserve for the second straight year. But someone with Jones’ skill set could complement the Auburn product and what he brings to the table.
It’s easy to forget that Jones spent the first part of the season on IR, so the fact he’s done so well since returning to the field is another positive element that shouldn’t be overlooked.