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

Carolina Panthers could draft Nik Bonitto

• Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | Oklahoma

With Haason Reddick now on the Philadelphia Eagles after the Carolina Panthers opted to let him test the free-agent market, those in power should also prioritize bringing in a promising edge rusher from the college ranks who could immediately contribute.

Taking one of the premier options at No. 6 overall cannot be ruled out despite needs elsewhere. However, this is projected to be an extremely deep class and something the Panthers might be able to take advantage of a little further down the order.

If the Panthers opted for a trade down and got some Day 2 picks in return, then it might be worth examining what Nik Bonitto could bring to the organization. The Oklahoma product is an absolute livewire that can change the complexion of a game instantly thanks to unique explosiveness and exceptional power.

Bonitto also possesses a relentless motor and his work ethic is second to none. With 19.5 sacks and 33 tackles for loss during his time with the Sooners, there is encouragement that he can take this into the pros providing he bulks up a little.

The Panthers might not need Bonitto to start right away thanks to the presence of Yetur Gross-Matos. But that’s not to say he couldn’t play a key rotational role in obvious pass-rushing situations.