Panthers 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: Swinging big edition
Carolina Panthers draft Jose Ramirez
- Defensive End | Eastern Michigan Eagles
Most of this mock draft has been about taking chances on players with upside. Jose Ramirez’s potential at pick No. 150 is another big swing.
Selecting an edge rusher at some point in the draft is something Scott Fitterer needs to consider. Ramirez is a quick defensive end with a high motor and despite needing development before becoming a starter, he could become an impactful pass-rusher in the NFL.
He led the Eastern Michigan defense with 12 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss in his senior season. Ramirez was awarded the MAC’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 as a result.
Ramirez has to develop against the run and get stronger, but his pass-rushing ability allowed him to take over games single-handily. He oozes athleticism, and his defensive production last time around cannot be ignored.
Drafting a player who filled the stat sheet like Ramirez did this late in the draft is a smart move. Especially in an area of the roster that needs depth behind Brian Burns.
Ramirez would slot in as a rotational pass-rusher behind Burns in Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 defense. And he has the potential to become a starter within a couple of seasons.