5 silent assassins on defense the Panthers could draft in 2021
By Dean Jones
Ar’Darius Washington – S (TCU)
Trevor Moehrig is a projected first-round pick – and rightfully so – but ignoring the talent of former TCU teammate Ar’Darius Washington is something the Carolina Panthers would be wise not to ignore. The safety quietly went about his business throughout his time with the Hornfrogs on his way to a productive college career that seems to be playing second fiddle to his partner on the backend.
That could mean an NFL team is going to get a real steal where Washington is concerned. This might have something to with the prospect’s height – he’s listed at 5-foot-8 – but he possesses a high level of athleticism and football IQ that allows him to make a significant impression.
Washington’s ball skills are nothing short of exceptional. The prospect is borderline elite when it comes to snatching balls from opposing receivers, although there are some concerns about whether or not physicality or durability will make things difficult for the player once he gets to the next level.
The Panthers do have the opportunity to move stud rookie Jeremy Chinn to put alongside Juston Burris, which would take the pressure off Washington to make a big contribution immediately. However, there is plenty to suggest he could be a shrewd pickup in the mid-rounds and one that might just emerge as a reliable starter in the not-too-distant future.