The Panthers have offensive and defensive needs coming into the draft, especially at defensive back, on the defensive line and on the offensive line.
Carolina finished the 2019 season with a dismal 5-11 record, losing the first two games and the last eight games with other losses in between. The Panthers’ last win came on Nov. 3 against the Tennessee Titans.
Head coach Ron Rivera was fired mid-season and Baylor head coach Matt Rhule was hired as his replacement in Charlotte.
Javon Kinlaw from neighboring South Carolina would be an ideal fit for Carolina’s defensive line. He spent three years with the Gamecocks and recorded 82 total sacks, 42 of them solo and 40 assists. He also recorded eight pass deflections, four fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles in his college career.
Kinlaw’s physicality is built to intimidate his opponents with heavy hands and a forceful charge. He would add to depth to the Panthers’ roster and the new coaches in Carolina could help form Kinlaw to be more patient and consistent.