5 draft prospects in play if the Carolina Panthers trade back from No. 6

Carolina Panthers could draft Nakobe Dean

• Linebacker | Georgia

Although the linebacker unit was strengthened during free agency, the Carolina Panthers have a problem on their hands with Damien Wilson. The Super Bowl winner was arrested and could be facing charges for an alleged assault on his girlfriend, which would likely bring an abrupt end to his time with the organization.

If this concerning situation evolves into anything more, the Panthers could alter their draft plans as a result. But there is also the prospect of bringing in another quality free-agent addition with a number of interesting figures still searching for new homes.

Should the Panthers end up trading back for more capital, it might give them the luxury of selecting a long-term successor to Luke Kuechly at last. Nakobe Dean is someone that fits the bill, with the Georgia product performing at an exceptionally high level during the Bulldogs’ sensational national championship triumph in 2021.

Dean is a physical second-level defender that impacts all phases of the game. He is a supreme sideline-to-sideline presence against the run, can make things happen in pass-rushing scenarios, and also more than holds his own in coverage.

The player is also an exceptional communicator and impressive leader. Traits that the Panthers have sorely lacked since Kuechly hung up his cleats.