What exactly do the Carolina Panthers have at DT in 2021?

(Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports) Carolina Panthers defensive line
(Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports) Carolina Panthers defensive line /
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(Joseph Cress/Iowa Hawk Central via IMAGN images) Daviyon Nixon /

The incoming college prospects

  • Daviyon Nixon, Phil Hoskins

Despite the Carolina Panthers being aggressive in free agency on defense, it didn’t stop them from bringing in some exciting college recruits from a memorable NFL Draft in 2021.

General manager Scott Fitterer was extremely active in the trade market throughout the three-day event. This led to 11 selections for the organization and two picks further boosting their options at defensive tackle.

Perhaps the most intriguing of these is Daviyon Nixon. The former Iowa standout was expected to go in the second round by most analysts before character concerns emerged and the Panthers picked him up on Day 3.

If Nixon comes in with the right attitude and makes his time on the field count during training camp and the preseason, the rookie could have a part to play in 2021. He might even become the steal of the draft when it’s all said and done.

Carolina’s desire to get bigger on their interior was evident with the selection of Phil Hoskins, who might be a work in progress initially before potentially emerging as a member of the rotation as the season goes on.

This should boost options in the event injury strikes during the season if nothing else. But both players come into the Panthers with some likable traits.