4 biggest steals for the Panthers during the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Deonte Brown – Carolina Panthers OG
- Round No. 6 – Pick No. 193 overall
The decline down the draft of Deonte Brown was a surprise, but the concerns are there for all to see. His production on the field is undisputable during his stint at Alabama that ended with a telling contribution to their national championship victory in 2020. However, character issues and obvious weight concerns meant he was still there for the Carolina Panthers in the sixth round.
Carolina’s coaching staff spent plenty of time working with Brown at the Senior Bowl, where he looked a little on the big side even for him. This is obviously something that the Panthers need to monitor closely with players left to their own devices away from the team facility, with the guard also having plenty of responsibility to keep his weight down to a level that enables him to perform well on the field.
In terms of ability, Brown has a lot going for him. He is a ruthless blocker on running downs that is also nimble enough to protect efficiently in obvious passing situations for a man his size.
Considering the uncertainty on the interior offensive line in Carolina, if Brown can transition well and prove a valuable member of the roster in a short space of time, then he might end up earning a starting spot in Week 1.
Either way, this represents some major value for the Panthers in the later rounds. But what comes next will be down to the player.