5 lively outsiders for the Panthers first round pick in 2021

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah – LB (Notre Dame)

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah might not have the size normally associated with a starting linebacker at the next level. But that should not detract from what an outstanding prospect the Notre Dame standout is.

Owusu-Koramoah possesses unbelievable explosiveness that can make an impact on a three-down basis. He has the athleticism to play multiple positions with ease and can even line up as a third safety if required, which is something the Carolina Panthers sought heavily during their recruitment processs last time out.

Carolina missed Luke Kuechly a significant amount after the legendary linebacker annnounced his retirement following the 2019 campaign. Jermaine Carter’s production when the Panthers finally took Tahir Whitehead out of the lineup was encouraging, but this area of the field needs some additional options of defensive coordinator Phil Snow gets his wish and stud rookie Jeremy Chinn is moved to the backend.

Acquiring Owusu-Koramoah would be a real coup for the Panthers given the player’s potential for further growth when he gets some professional experience. He recorded seven sacks, 24.5 tackles for loss, 142 tackles, seven passes defended, five forced fumbles, and one interception in just 25 games for the Fighting Irish, and it’s hard to gauge just how high his ceiling is.