5 prospects that might tempt the Panthers to go defense in Round 1

Carolina Panthers could draft DeMarvin Leal

Acquiring bodies for the defensive line might not be seen as a major need for the Carolina Panthers. However, if DaQuan Jones and Marquis Haynes leave in free agency, the chances of taking a top performer to keep things trending in the right direction within this positional group increase exponentially.

Again, this can only be considered in a trade-down situation and if the Panthers fix other vital needs during the early stages of free agency. But if all the pieces fall into place, then targeting someone like DeMarvin Leal is a dark horse candidate to join a line that also consists of two former first-round picks in Brian Burns and Derrick Brown.

Leal has been a dominant figure throughout his time at Texas A&M, living up to his five-star status coming out of high school. His 12.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 2021 indicate the interior presence is progressing all the time and his size coupled with elite athleticism means a successful NFL career is almost guaranteed.

If Leal generates early momentum to the point of attack, he is almost unstoppable. His devastating hands are matched with enough explosiveness to wreak havoc on any given down and these skills are sure to make an easy transition to the professional ranks in 2022.

Yes, this would be a controversial pick even if the Panthers traded down. But the benefits of securing Leal’s services are glaring and shouldn’t be ignored entirely.