NFL Draft 2020: Complete first-round mock, post-free agency

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 28: Chase Young #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second half during the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on December 28, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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TAMPA, FLORIDA – JANUARY 01: Derrick Brown #5 of the Auburn Tigers reacts to a play during the 2020 Outback Bowl against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

player. 87. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Auburn. DT. Derrick Brown. 7

Carolina has been busy in this NFL free agency period with trades and acquisitions that fill huge needs. Trading for tackle Russell Okung from the Chargers and signed quarterback Teddy Bridgewater was a first step in the right direction.

The Panthers were 29th in the league last year in rushing yards allowed per game (143.5). This is a problem considering they had one of the NFL’s top middle linebackers in Luke Kuechly.

In comes one of the most dominant defensive linemen, outside of Chase Young, in nose tackle Derrick Brown.

Last season for the Auburn Tigers, Brown accumulated 55 total tackles and 12.5 tackles for loss. The addition of Brown will be huge for the Panthers especially with the loss of Dontari Poe to free agency. He can play the three-technique defensive tackle position and potentially the edge in some packages that do not require a quick pass rush.

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