7 prospects on defense for Panthers to watch at 2022 Scouting Combine
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers should watch Drake Jackson
Providing the Carolina Panthers find a way to keep Haason Reddick around in free agency, there doesn’t appear a great need for the organization to select another pass-rusher at the top-end of the draft. However, that could all change if the Temple product walks and Drake Jackson is a name worthy of real consideration in this scenario.
Jackson has the versatility to put his hand in the dirt as a defensive end and also stand up as an outside linebacker in the right scheme. Although he is still a little raw in terms of development, the talented individual is set to be one of the NFL Scouting Combine’s stars thanks to exceptional physical traits that are going to test superbly well.
Teams are always willing to take a chance on players with Jackson’s ceiling. His speed is a key factor behind some impressive production at USC, which is matched by explosive power and a naive fearless to his play that is hard not to love.
One area where Jackson could improve is from a technical standpoint. His tackling also needs some work once he gets to the pros, so he might be something of a work in progress initially.
In truth, this would be a luxury pick for the Panthers. One they might not be able to afford considering their strong needs elsewhere that will obviously take priority.