7 defensive ends the Panthers could pick in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Shaka Toney – Penn State
If the Carolina Panthers want a little more in the way of value from an incoming college defensive end, then someone like Shaka Toney should be high on the shortlist. The former Penn State standout accumulated 20.5 sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss during his time with the Nittany Lions, outperforming projected first-round pick Jason Oweh in 2020.
Toney is a typical Penn State pass-rusher. He is explosive off the block with more scope for improvement once he gets to the next level.
The Panthers took a gamble on Yetur Gross-Matos from the same program last year. If Toney makes it to Day 3, they should take more than a second look.
Patrick Jones II – Pittsburgh
Patrick Jones II put together a couple of nice seasons together at Pittsburgh, resulting in 17.5 sacks and 24 tackles for loss. His physical attributes are extremely well balanced, with his prowess stopping the run something that really stood out during his college career.
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He has some accomplished moves in pursuit of the quarterback and holds his ground well when it comes to plugging gaps in run support. One problem for Jones might be a size issue. But at least from a talent perspective, there is a lot to work with providing it’s nothing more than a late-round flier.