Panthers 2021 Draft: Franchise QB secured in latest 7-round mock

Christian Barmore – DT (Alabama)

Getting a long-term replacement for Derrick Brown is something else for the Carolina Panthers to consider this offseason. Kawann Short is likely to be released due to his whopping $20.83 million salary-cap figure next season and although Zach Kerr has done well deputizing, whether he is the answer beyond 2021 remains to be seen.

Christian Barmore is an outstanding prospect who might go a lot higher than the fourth round. His power off the block is extraordinary and the player’s ability to get after the quarterback from the interior has resulted in seven sacks so far ahead of the National Championship game.

Barmore’s talent seems to compliment Brown extremely well, even if he still a little rough around the edges. The Panthers also have the option to extend Efe Obada as a three-technique rusher during free agency, which would be another welcome boost to this area of the field.

Monty Rice – LB (Georgia)

Taking a linebacker was seen as an essential need for Carolina earlier in the campaign. This was thanks in no small part to the dismal performances of Tahir Whitehead but since Jermaine Carter was installed as a starter things have picked up enormously at the second level.

That being said, the Panthers could still do with some enhanced depth across their linebacker corps. Monty Rice has four years of college experience at Georgia under his belt and does have some intriguing skills to call upon.

Rice is explosive enough in short bursts to create pressure in opposing backfields and does well in coverage situations. He might be a little undersized for the next level, but this will all be extra motivation providing there isn’t too much pressure put on the player’s shoulders early in his transition.