6 Carolina Panthers players whose stock is way up in 2020
By Dean Jones
Zach Kerr – Carolina Panthers DT
After initially being brought to the Carolina Panthers as a rotational piece, Zach Kerr has evolved into an important member of their defensive front thanks to a series of outstanding displays. The defensive tackle has made the most out of the opportunity for a more increased role and his future with the organization looks incredibly bright.
This might not have been the case had Kawann Short not gone down with another season-ending surgery for the second straight year that all-but ends his time with the Panthers. The coaching staff placed a lot of faith in Kerr to step in and fill the void, something he’s managed to do with aplomb.
The former Delaware star has two sacks, nine quarterback hits, 27 tackles, one forced fumble, and seven pressures this season. Kerr has yet to miss a tackle and has a lofty grade of 84.9 from Pro Football Focus as further proof of his extremely high level of production since becoming a starter.
Although the Panthers might draft another young prospect to play the three-technique in the NFL Draft, this could now be a development project thanks to the presence of Kerr. The lineman has one year remaining on his deal in 2021 and he doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon despite being the wrong side of 30.