The Carolina Panthers entered Nashville and the 2019 NFL Draft with a number of needs on their current roster. Despite general manager Marty Hurney making a few moves through free agency, openings remained along both lines, at linebacker, safety and for running back depth.
Armed with the sixteenth overall pick, Hurney addressed one of those areas and it really came as no surprise. Following the retirement of defensive end Julius Peppers, coupled with the decline in a prevalent pass rush – landing a defensive line player who can consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks was an immediate need.