6 potential replacements for Panthers LB Jermaine Carter in 2022
By Dean Jones
Nakobe Dean
- 2021 team – Georgia Bulldogs
If the Carolina Panthers are looking for a long-term option rather than gambling on another free agent, then looking at the latest batch of college recruits entering the league is a realistic possibility.
With no Day 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft right now following trades for Sam Darnold and C.J. Henderson, the Panthers have to get creative. That could mean general manager Scott Fitterer trading down from No. 6 overall in pursuit of acquiring additional draft capital.
Much will obviously depend on how the board plays out. There is also a clear need to bolster an offensive line that became a constant source of frustration in 2021.
However, prospects like Nakobe Dean don’t come along every day. An immediate problem-solver that enters the league with Pro Bowl potential.
Dean’s influence on the Georgia Bulldogs during their memorable national championship success left many believing big things could be in the player’s future. His unique blend of athleticism and physicality make him a real force to be reckoned with and this is matched by exceptional communication pre-snap for good measure.
There are some who are even suggesting Dean could have an impact similar to what Luke Kuechly managed to accomplish with the Panthers coming out of Boston College. But whether the protection issues stop the organization from looking in the linebacker’s direction remains to be seen.