5 silent assassins on defense the Panthers could draft in 2021

Darius Stills – DT (West Virginia)

The Carolina Panthers made a shrewd move by acquiring DaQuan Jones in free agency prior to the 2021 NFL Draft. His production from the defensive tackle spot for the Tennessee Titans over the last couple of years has been of an extremely high standard and considering the cost involved, it represents another good bit of business and one that is sure to provide some immediate help alongside Derrick Brown.

With that being said, the Panthers could also use a talented young prospect to bolster their rotation that lost Kawann Short and Zach Kerr to early releases ahead of time. They do have Bravvion Roy and three-technique Morgan Fox to call upon. But if they are after a little bit of value down the pecking order, then a late-round flier on someone like Darius Stills could have some benefit.

Stills was productive at West Virginia over his college career, even if he did appear to be a little raw in his development for the most part. He anticipates the snap well and has the strength to evade blocks in the process. But his lack of discipline in running situations is something that will get found out quickly in a professional environment.

Fortunately for the Panthers, they don’t necessarily need a prospect like Stills to accumulate a lot of reps as a rookie, although that might change with a couple of injuries. However, what they can use is the player’s obvious strengths initially in the right fit as he works on potential problem areas of his game.