4 prospects who could tempt Panthers to go defense at No. 8
By Dean Jones
Micah Parsons – LB (Penn State)
The struggles were there for all to see during the season at the second level after Luke Kuechly announced his retirement. This left a gaping hole on the field and in the locker room and the Carolina Panthers might want to bring in someone who is capable of being a long-term replacement despite the encouraging performances of Jermaine Carter over the second half of the campaign.
Some character concerns have surfaced surrounding Micah Parsons, which might draw a red flag. However, his talent is unquestioned and he has all the attributes needed to become an instant star at the next level.
Parsons possesses an energy that other players respond to. He is a commanding force against the run and has absolutely no trouble getting in opposing backfields thanks to his athletic burst. The Penn State sensation opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns, but if he can alleviate the doubts creeping in regarding his personality, it would be a shock if the player’s name wasn’t one of the first called.
It’s hard not to look at Parsons’ film and not think he’d be a tremendous asset for the Panthers.
Carolina got plenty of the same traits from stud rookie Jeremy Chinn after he earned a starting spot at outside linebacker during training camp. So if they could get someone like Parsons on board, it could send their defensive fortunes into another stratosphere.