2020 NFL mock draft: Final 1st-round projections with trades

Luke Easterling makes his final projections for the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, with a handful of big trades and surprise picks

7. Carolina Panthers

Isaiah Simmons | LB | Clemson

This scenario leaves the Panthers with a tough decision to make, but picking between two blue-chip defenders at positions of need is a good problem to have on draft day.

Interior defensive line is a need here, so Brown is a strong possibility, but the unexpected retirement of Luke Kuechly tips the scales in favor of Simmons. Some may wonder where his best position is at the next level, but any defensive coordinator worth his laminated play sheet should be able to make sure a guy this athletic and this talented makes an impact no matter where he lines up.

Simmons is a plug-and-play upgrade at either linebacker or safety, and helps alleviate the loss of Kuechly to some degree. No matter what position he plays, Simmons is a dynamic player who is a steal outside the top five.