Daviyon Nixon – Carolina Panthers DT
Picking up Daviyon Nixon in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft was a tremendous decision by the Carolina Panthers. The defensive tackle adjusted to the next level well despite some pre-draft concerns about his character, which proved to be unfounded and really undeserved upon further examination of the player.
Nixon also matched this smooth transition by flashing real quality as part of the defensive line rotation. It was such a shame to see the Iowa product’s campaign end early due to injury, but there remains some real excitement about what he could potentially bring to the team next season with another full preparation period to develop his craft.
Providing Nixon remains on course and is fully healthy, then it’s hard to envisage a situation where he fails in 2022. He is a disruptive force in pass-rushing situations and more than held his own against the run despite his lack of experience last time around.
The Panthers lost DaQuan Jones in free agency to the Buffalo Bills. They did sign Matt Ioannidis following his release by the Washington Commanders, but there should be a role on the rotation for Nixon once again when healthy.
What adjustments Nixon has made during his time away from the gridiron will be crucial. The physical attributes are all there, it’s just a matter of growth at this stage.