4 Carolina Panthers players to get excited about in 2021
By Dean Jones
Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers DT
Derrick Brown was the right pick at No. 7 overall for the Carolina Panthers in 2020. There were plenty who would have preferred linebacker Isaiah Simmons following the shock retirement of Luke Kuechly, but the decision-makers stuck to their guns after the Auburn product impressed them considerably during the evaluation process.
They were right to do so.
Brown made a hugely encouraging start to his time in a professional environment. His ability in run support came on a great deal throughout the campaign and the doubts surrounding the player’s ability to generate pressure in opposing backfields were quashed in a convincing manner.
Considering Brown was one of the NFL’s most double-teamed defensive tackles this season, his production was outstanding. Couple this with the rookie not having veteran Pro Bowler Kawann Short alongside him to aid his transition to the next level, and it only heightens excitement regarding his potential to become a key contributor in 2021 and beyond.
Brown has the scope to be Carolina’s defensive line anchor for the next decade if he stays free of injury. The player is sure to make some more improvements to his game during the offseason period, which could make him even more of a force to be reckoned with.
This is excellent news for the Panthers. Brown finished the season with 34 tackles, two sacks, eight tackles for loss, 12 quarterback hits, four passes defended, and 17 pressures. But the scary thing is, he is just getting started.