Carolina Panthers: Derrick Brown emerging as potential stud
By Dean Jones
Brown’s production in 2020
It might have taken Derrick Brown a little bit of time to get going. But it’s hard not to look at his overall production this season and not be impressed. The defensive tackle has proven to be a commanding presence on the interior that excels in run-stopping and his ability to get into the backfield consistently in passing situations is another eye-catching feature to his game that shouldn’t be overlooked.
The Carolina Panthers made the right call with Brown, even though there were some questions about his ability to be as impactful against bigger and more experienced offensive linemen at the next level. Getting double-teamed on almost every play at Auburn is an experience he’s put to good use and the scary thing is he’s only going to get better once his body further develops.
Brown has accumulated 33 tackles, two sacks, eight tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, four passes defended, and 13 pressures this season. This includes just five missed tackles and a 59.2 grade from Pro Football Focus, which is a vastly improved mark that he was given during the opening stages of the campaign.
Carolina’s defense has a solid core and Brown is a huge part of that. Providing the necessary reinforcements are brought in to solidify the backend during free agency and the 2021 NFL Draft, it should make them a force to be reckoned with from the off next time around.