Clemson LB Isaiah Simmons
Nobody would be in a position to complain about Carolina getting a prospect like Okudah. However, he would only be a savior for one position. The Panthers defense has been decimated by a flurry of starters leaving in free agency, as well as the retirement of future Hall of Fame inside linebacker Luke Kuechly.
The one prospect who can help fill that void best is Simmons. While he is technically listed as a linebacker from his time at Clemson, he is capable of playing several different defensive positions at a high level. During his time in college, Dabo Swinney also lined him up at outside corner, in the slot, free safety, strong safety and on the edge.
Simmons’ freak athleticism defies description and comparison, but the closest thing to an NFL comp might be Kam Chancellor, who was asked to carry a heavy load for the Seahawks’ legendary defense when it was peaking. He won’t put the same fear of God into receivers running crossing routes the way Chancellor once did. However, his ability to carry tight ends and drop down down into the box and impact the run game is remarkably similar. He’s better in coverage, too.
If the Panthers really want him, they will probably have to leap-frog Dave Gettleman’s Giants, who are slated to pick at No. 4 overall.
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