4 extremely underrated Panthers players entering 2022 training camp

Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers DT

There’s no doubt that Derrick Brown is becoming an easy target amongst some sections of the fanbase. Not entirely unexpected considering where the Carolina Panthers drafted the former Auburn sensation during the 2020 NFL Draft.

Brown was brought in to become a dominant force on the defensive line interior. Although he’s certainly flashed these capabilities over his first two seasons, many expected him to reach greater heights given he was drafted at No. 7 overall.

This is a little harsh on Brown, who is continuously evolving and one has to look beyond the stats themselves to see what he brings to the Panthers.

Firstly, Brown is one of the league’s most double-teamed defensive tackles and has been from the moment he entered the league. This opens up space for others to do damage, which benefitted the likes of Haason Reddick and Brian Burns greatly in 2021.

Brown also does a lot of superb things that don’t show up on the stat sheet. His hand placement is improving all the time and this is matched by gradual progression in pass-rushing and gap discipline against the run.

This is a huge year upcoming for Brown. But just because some think he hasn’t performed like a top-10 pick should up to now, there is every chance that could change.