The new-look Carolina Panthers defense took center stage in their season opener Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders. Four of the 11 starters were rookies (Derrick Brown, Yetur Gross-Matos, Jeremy Chinn and Troy Pride Jr.)
First-round pick Derrick Brown and second-round pick Jeremy Chinn were as good as advertised in their NFL debut.
Like he did at Auburn, Brown clogged up holes and attacking the opposing offensive line. He showed flashes of potential dominance he can build on, including a tackle for a loss and a couple of pass breakups.
Really smart play from Derrick Brown here. Tracks Derek Carr as he leaves the pocket and tips the ball in flight to prevent the first down completion. pic.twitter.com/19JJh2Ym9p
— Cian (@Cianaf) September 13, 2020
Jeremy Chinn got the start at strongside linebacker and did not disappoint. He displayed excellent closing speed, open-field tackling, and strong coverage skills, all things he did very well at Southern Illinois.
Jeremy Chinn in action pic.twitter.com/6paPPKDpNL
— Panthers 24/7 (@Panthers24_7) September 13, 2020
While they lost, the Panthers can at least come out of this game knowing they have early building blocks for the future of the defense in Brown and Chinn.
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