Carolina Panthers final 53-man roster projection for 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers DL (8)
- Brian Burns, Derrick Brown, DaQuan Jones, Morgan Fox, Yetur Gross-Matos, Bravvion Roy, Marquis Haynes, Phil Hoskins.
If the offensive line has some substantial concerns, the complete opposite feeling surrounds the Carolina Panthers on their defensive front. This is a group loaded with dynamic playmakers with the right blend of youth and experience, so they could become a real force in 2021 and possibly beyond.
The group is obviously led by Brian Burns, who looks poised for a breakout season after the Florida State product made some significant strides in Year 2 of his professional career.
Morgan Fox will start opposite Burns on the edge, with No. 7 overall selection Derrick Brown and DaQuan Jones set to form a commanding defensive tackle duo that should free up even more space for those coming off the edge.
The rotation also looks strong.
Second-year-pro Yetur Gross-Matos is primed for bigger and better things providing he stays free of injury if his rookie campaign was any indication. Much is also expected of Marquis Haynes after proving himself to be a reliable edge presence when called upon.
Rookie Daviyon Nixon and Bravvion Roy should form the defensive tackle backup spots. But the potential of seventh-rounder Phil Hoskins should see the player come through onto the 53.
However, it might come down to Hoskins and Christian Miller for the final defensive line spot.