Ranking the Panthers’ top-5 DT options in the 2021 NFL Draft

Tyler Shelvin – LSU

Tyler Shelvin fits almost exactly what the Carolina Panthers need to help stop the run, a massive gap-eating, run stopper at the defensive tackle spot opposite of Derrick Brown. A former five-star recruit out of high school, the imposing figure opted out of the 2020 season after helping LSU win the national championship in 2019.

He didn’t put up flashy numbers, but most pure gap fillers don’t show their impact on the stat sheet. Shelvin has the size to eat blocks and free up the other talented players on the Panthers’ defensive line.

Weight and conditioning have been considered issues for Shelvin, listed at 6-foot-2 and 350 pounds. This isn’t a major concern because if he can slim down a little bit at the next level, he’ll be able to stay on the field longer.

His role once the prospect gets to the NFL will most likely be an early-down run stopper. So he won’t need to be on the field all game considering the Panthers brought in Morgan Fox as a three-technique in obvious pass-rushing situations.

Shelvin could prove to be a nice addition to Carolina’s defensive line and should help improve a run defense that remains a concern. The best part about it is he will be a low-risk selection, being a projected fourth or fifth-round selection.

Taking a late-round run stuffer like Shelvin would no doubt have the Panthers’ front office excited.