4 training camp battles to watch after Panthers draft picks

Brady Christensen vs. Brian Burns

It was something of a surprise to see the Carolina Panthers not take an offensive tackle with one of their first two picks. But judging by their intent to move up in the third round and select Brady Christensen out of BYU, he was a prospect that was very high on their shortlist.

Christensen was largely responsible for keeping Zach Wilson’s pocket clean on his way to a stunning 96.0 grade from Pro Football Focus, which was the highest mark ever given to a tackle in college. It also enabled the quarterback to demonstrate enough in the way of talent for the New York Jets to take him at No. 2 overall.

There are some concerns about Christensen’s arm length when he gets to the next level. But from a technical and athletic standpoint, the player has a substantial amount going for him.

If the Panthers want to get a better scope of whether Christensen can be a Day 1 starter at left tackle, then getting him competing against stud defensive end Brian Burns throughout team drills would be the best indicator possible.

Burns is widely regarded as one of the league’s best young edge rushers and big things are expected from the former first-round pick in his third year. Christensen would get a baptism of fire coming up against the Florida State product, of that there is little doubt. But it could make him better prepared for what is to come in the pro ranks.