Let’s start 2020 off right, shall we?

Here is our first seven-round Panthers mock draft to ring in the New Year.

7. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn

The Panthers need more youth and aggressiveness up front and Derrick Brown is the best option in this draft class to replace Dontari Poe by far. Unfortunately, Brown will not be at the Senior Bowl but he’s a special athlete for his size and should perform very well at the Combine. Putting Brown next to Kawann Short would give Carolina a strong starting interior combo for years to come.