The Carolina Panthers joined the Atlanta Falcons in jumping up in this draft for a Nittany Lion. They traded up to pick 120 to grab the uber-athletic linebacker Brandon Smith.
Smith was a Tasmanian devil type of player making plays all over the field both in coverage and in providing run support. He should be a long lasting player in the NFL if he can remain healthy and while he doesn’t project to be anything special he could emerge as a leader on this defense.
The Panthers will have a competition for the starting linebacker position as they have overhauled that position this offseason. For Smith he has the benefit of being a player they traded up for while also being a youthful infusion.
A very interesting fit for Smith with the Carolina Panthers.
Draft Capital
(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Round 4, Pick 120
The Carolina Panthers add Brandon Smith to the latest batch of Nittany Lions teams have traded up for. The Panthers have had a need at linebacker ever since Luke Kuechly retired and while he is nowhere near the player he was he is a fun athletic player that will be used well in that defense.
Expected Role
(AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Expected Role: To Be Determined
The Panthers brought in two linebackers in free agency so Smith is going to have to compete for a role. He appears to be more talented than either of their signings at this point so during training camp he should carve out a meaningful role.
Grading the Fit
(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Grading the Fit: C+
I think Brandon Smith earns a starting role but this rookie year will be big for him. Day three NFL draft picks are never safe during offseason cuts and if there is a regime change in Carolina that could put him in jeopardy for a Panthers tenure.
Projection
Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
He should be able to carve out a starting role almost…
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