The Panthers clearly got a special defender when they picked Brian Burns at No. 16 overall in this year’s NFL draft. The former Florida State pass rusher has already posted 4.5 sacks, 11 quarterback hits and won Defensive Rookie of the Month for September.
Carolina’s defensive line looks nasty right now, but looking ahead the team should consider reinforcing the unit with another early-round pick in 2020. Could general manager Marty Hurney go back to the well and pick another Florida State DL prospect next year?
In a new 2020 mock from our friends at Draft Wire, that’s exactly what happens. Luke Easterling has the Panthers selecting Seminoles defensive tackle Marvin Wilson with the No. 20 overall pick.
Let’s take a look at the tape.
Wilson vs. Virginia
Wilson vs. Miami
Wilson vs. Wake Forest
Over his last 18 games, Wilson (6-foot-5, 311 pounds) has totaled 6.5 sacks, 8.5 tackles for a loss and two forced fumbles.
Using a first-round pick on Wilson might seem like overkill at a position the Panthers are already loaded at. Then again, overloading at DT is kind of what they do best.
Also, consider the average age of the current group. Dontari Poe is 29, Kawann Short is 30, Gerald McCoy is 31 and Kyle Love is 32. Only Vernon Butler (25) is really in his prime and it’s possible he’ll be cashing in elsewhere in free agency next year.
Drafting a defender like Wilson would be a cheaper alternative to giving Butler a big extension and qualify as a prudent, forward-thinking move. You’ll find the full mock here.
