Panthers projected to pick 'dominant force' from Georgia defense in 2025 NFL draft

The Carolina Panthers are predicted to land a defensive star in the draft.

Aug 31, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman Mykel Williams (13) celebrates after a tackle with linebacker Chaz Chambliss (32) against the Clemson Tigers in the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images / Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Carolina Panthers have some clear needs to address in the NFL Draft. No longer close to picking first overall, the team may not look at quarterback after all. Their defense, which has been historically bad this year despite two straight good outings, needs a lot of work. The latest mock draft suggests they look at Georgia stud edge rusher Mykel Williams.

Athlon Sports' Luke Easterling's mock draft predicts this, saying, "What do you get the team that needs everything? The best player on the board, regardless of position. Williams missed time earlier this season due to injury, but at full strength, he's been a dominant force for the Bulldogs. He's got rare athleticism and explosiveness for his size, and would be a worthy replacement after Carolina traded away Brian Burns."

The Panthers pass rush has been largely nonexistent this year. They lost Brian Burns and tried to recreate him in the Moneyball-esque aggregate with Jadeveon Clowney and DJ Wonnum. Wonnum's return to the lineup bolstered the rush last weekend in Munich, but Clowney hasn't been good.

By many metrics, edge rusher is the second-most important position on the football field. If they're rolling with Bryce Young, and it looks like they might if they pick low enough in the first round, then edge rusher should be the top priority. Williams might be the Burns replacement they desperately need.

Either way, defense should be the focus. They have lost some key contributors to injury, but a fully-healthy Panthers defense still yielded 47 points in Week 1 to the now 3-7 New Orleans Saints. The unit needs an overhaul badly.

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