First-round draft picks are the most precious commodities that NFL teams have. Whiffing on a first could set a franchise back for a year or even longer, while nailing the pick might help turn a flailing team around or turn a good team into a true contender.
This year, the Panthers used theirs on Derrick Brown, a defensive tackle from Auburn with average athleticism and a reputation as a run stuffer.
Given Brown’s size and tape from college, it’s tough to see him not succeeding as an above-average run defender at the next level. Whether or not he lives up to being a top-10 pick will depend a great deal on how good of a pass rusher he turns out to be.
Defensive coordinator Phil Snow believes it won’t be a problem. Here’s what he said about Brown’s ability to get after the QB, per the team website.
“He’s a big man that’s not going to get knocked off the football, and I think he’s gonna affect the quarterback (by preventing him) from stepping up and staying comfortable in that pocket. He’ll make them move. . . A lot of these quarterbacks are getting rid of the ball between 2.3 and 2.6 (seconds). So you’re not going to sack them, but you’ve got to affect them, and I think Derrick will do that.”
Given the competition Brown will be facing, it’s particularly important that he’s able to do that.
Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Matt Ryan all excel at making quick reads and getting the ball out of their hands fast. The more Brown can make them uncomfortable or prevent them from stepping up in the pocket (particularly Brees) the better Carolina’s chances will be to compete in a brutal division.
In four years at Auburn, Brown totaled 12.5 sacks, but he was frequently doubled teamed. That shouldn’t be a problem in the NFL as opponents will have their hands full with the likes of Kawann Short and Brian Burns.
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