4 emerging alphas from Carolina Panthers OTAs in 2021
By Dean Jones
Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers DT
There are no airs and graces where Derrick Brown is concerned. The defensive tackle is all about business and getting things done on the field, which is something the Carolina Panthers are going to benefit enormously from moving forward.
Much was expected of Brown when the Panthers selected him No. 7 overall in 2020. The player arrived at the next level following an outstanding college career and showed enough to suggest this is a trend that’s going to continue in the pro ranks.
Brown generated some significant pressure despite commanding plenty in the way of double-teams on the interior. There is some work to be done regarding run defense, so once the lineman works this out then Carolina will have the complete player on their hands.
The former Auburn star made a strong impression during OTAs and there might be even more to come with some additional quality along the Panthers’ defensive front next season. Haason Reddick is a notable edge-rusher who is expected to make an instant impression, with DaQuan Jones set to partner Brown on the interior.
This should all assist Brown during his sophomore season and if he makes the necessary improvements then a potential Pro Bowl campaign might not be too far behind.