2020 NFL Draft: Carolina Panthers late-round sleeper targets

4. Dane Jackson, Cornerback, Pitt

Dane Jackson is a three-year starter who is very well known for his physical and aggressive play. He’s a very physical tackler who’s not afraid to step up to defend the run, although he could take better angles in his pursuit.

Depending on how you feel about grabby, and overaggressive defensive backs, Jackson may not be your favorite prospect. He does get by with grabbing and tugging of the arm and jersey, but it’s only a flag if the refs see it, right? In all seriousness, he may need to cool it down just a tad or he could quickly gain a reputation in the league where refs will specifically look at him for a grab or tug.

The biggest thing going against Jackson is his lack of make-up speed. If he’s beat by a receiver deep there will be no catch-up for Jackson. He had four career interceptions with one coming in 2019. He also finished with 12 passes defended and 48 total tackles. The Carolina Panthers need to address their cornerback room at some point during the draft and Dane Jackson would be a very intriguing option if he’s still available in the fourth or fifth rounds.

5. Kenny Willekes, EDGE, Michigan State

Kenny Willekes has been falling down draft boards since the season ended and the reason seems to have more to do with his limited athletic ability more than production-related. The fact is he’s a very hard worker that has the tenacity and instincts to play at the next level. Check out his response to criticism of him not being athletic enough to be an edge rusher.

The Carolina Panthers may not have a pressing  need on the edge, but if Willekes continues to drop to day three of the draft they would be wise to consider taking the former Spartan edge rusher. Also, he plays with a chip on his shoulder as if he has something to prove on every down.

Willekes has seen his numbers increase every season since walking onto the Michigan State Spartans. In 2017, his first season, Willekes recorded 7 sacks with 72 total tackles. Not bad at all for a walk-on. Those numbers continued to increase to 8.5 sacks in 2018 and 10.5 sacks in 2019.