4 NFL Draft prospects for the Panthers to replace Zach Kerr in 2021
By Dean Jones
Mustafa Johnson – Colorado
Versatility is clearly the name of the game for Matt Rhule if his first two offseasons with the Carolina Panthers are any indication. Getting players to the organization who can slot in at multiple positions has served the head coach well so far and hopefully, he can have the same sort of success with his latest batch of free agents and draft prospects.
Mustafa Johnson may not be the biggest prospect entering the NFL this year. But he has a high motor and the ability to play either as a three-technique or on the edge when required.
The defensive lineman burst onto the scene in 2018 with 7.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. Johnson followed this up with two solid years in the lead-up to the draft, which could see him become a high-value selection in the mid-to-late rounds next month.
He might be a little undersized for your stereotypical player at the position. However, his technique and athleticism are excellent and matched by a competitive edge that really set him apart at Colorado.
Johnson is definitely worth taking a chance on, of that there is little doubt. He appears to have all the characteristics Rhule covets heavily and landing in Carolina would give the prospect time to develop on the job.