4 strongest positional groups on the Carolina Panthers in 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers DTs
This was an area of concern for the Carolina Panthers heading into the 2020 season despite taking Derrick Brown at No. 7 overall.
That is not the case anymore.
The defensive line interior should be a positional group capable of making some real noise for the Panthers thanks to the presence not only of Brown, but also some intriguing additions in free agency and the NFL Draft.
Zach Kerr and Kawann Short were cut loose ahead of time and Efe Obada got his big-money move to the Buffalo Bills in free agency. This left some spots open on the depth chart and one could argue Carolina made some substantial improvements.
DaQuan Jones is a force against the run and exactly what the Panthers are looking for alongside Brown, who has the potential to be special with another offseason of refinement. Run defense remained a problem for Carolina last time out and judging by what the team managed to do this offseason, there is real scope for better things in their immediate future.
The acquisition of Morgan Fox from the Los Angeles Rams should provide them with a veteran three-technique, with fifth-round pick Daviyon Nixon also coming with a substantial amount of upside after wreaking havoc at Iowa during his final college campaign.
Bravvion Roy, seventh-rounder Phil Hoskins, and recent arrival Caraun Reid could also play a part, meaning this unit is now one of the most formidable on the roster.