2019 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks rising in first round of NFL Draft
By Phil Poling
player. 87. . Linebacker. Michigan Wolverines. Devin Bush. 16
The Carolina Panthers need to find a replacement for the vacant linebacker spot left by Thomas Davis’ departure. Michigan’s Devin Bush won’t produce like the 14-year veteran right away, but he could be in Carolina for a decade-plus like Davis.
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Bush only measured 5-foot-11 at the NFL Combine, but that isn’t scaring teams away. He’s got great speed (4.43 40-yard dash), but is heavier than you’d expect at 234 pounds. His weight complements his speed in a way that’s almost required in today’s NFL for linebackers: he’s fast enough to run with backs, but also big enough to bring them down 1-on-1.
The Panthers have gone offense in the first round the past two NFL Draft’s, taking D.J. Moore and Christian McCaffrey. But passing on Bush when there’s a gaping hole at linebacker wouldn’t be a wise move. Other than the UM product, Devin White is the only linebacker prospect that’s worth a top-15 pick. Failing to grab one of these two would force Carolina to address another position.