2021 NFL Draft: 49ers make aggressive move for QB in 3-round mock draft
2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 8th overall
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. LB. Penn State. Micah Parsons. 8. player. 87
If the Carolina Panthers find themselves in a position to take a true franchise quarterback in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, they should undoubtedly jump on that opportunity. However, with quarterbacks flying off of the board quickly in this mock draft, that opportunity is simply not available.
Instead, the Panthers look to the defensive side of the ball with this pick, adding Penn State linebacker Micah Parsons to the mix. Parsons is an extremely athletic linebacker prospect who is a perfect fit for the modern NFL. He ranges from sideline-to-sideline with ease, flying around the field and making plays against the run and the pass on a consistent basis.
The Penn State product displays great speed and athleticism at the linebacker position and does not lack anything in the size department. Parsons has the stout frame needed to take on blocks in the middle fo the field and hold his ground against bigger offensive linemen.
While his coverage ability is raw, Parsons has the exciting size/speed combination needed to grow into an impact player in that area at the next level. He is also an extremely dangerous pass rusher who can line up on the edge and attack the quarterback or fire through the line of scrimmage and create pressure in the blitz game.
The Panthers have done a great job of stocking their roster with plenty of exciting young defensive talent. This unit has a chance to quickly grow into one of the premier defenses in the league and Parsons could be the player who takes them over the top.