5 surprising positives from the Panthers victory vs. Saints in Week 3

Carolina Panthers DT Derrick Brown heard the noise

If there was a player under pressure after Week 1, it was Derrick Brown. A clip of the former No. 7 overall selection being pancaked coupled with a lack of interior pressure generated left fans questioning the defensive tackle’s long-term future.

This season is vital for Brown as the Carolina Panthers must decide next offseason whether or not to pick up his fifth-year option. If the Auburn product continues the play we’ve seen over the last two weeks, the discussion between those in power will be brief.

Last week against the New York Giants, Brown graded out at 78.1 according to Pro Football Focus, which was the second highest on the defense behind Frankie Luvu. Against the Saints, he was constantly getting pressure on the interior and topped off an outstanding performance with a big-man interception which everyone loves.

Now it’s only been two weeks,. But it’s important to give Brown credit for the way he’s performed over the last two weeks.

If Brown continues that level of play he could be in for a good payday once his rookie contract expires. And perhaps even sooner than that depending on how the Panthers’ precarious financial situation stands next year.