2019 NFL Mock Draft: Surprise trade into top three shakes up first round

Edge rusher stands out as a clear need for the Carolina Panthers. They relied heavily on Julius Peppers last season. Peppers retired this off season forcing the Panthers to get aggressive to replace his snaps and production.

They signed Bruce Irvin to a one-year free agent contract earlier this off season, but he is more of a pure speed linebacker/defensive end hybrid rusher who is going to be most impactful on passing downs. Carolina needs to find a well-rounded defensive end prospect who can influence the game on all downs.

Smack dab in the middle of this 2019 NFL mock draft, the Panthers find one of the most well-rounded defensive ends in this class in Clelin Ferrell.

Ferrell had an extremely productive college career at Clemson, playing alongside many fellow future NFL players. He is not a freak athlete on the edge, but he has an ideal combination of size, length and power that will play at the next level.

A solid pass rusher who relies on strength, technique and hand usage to succeed, Ferrell will have success getting creating some pressure at the next level. He is not the kind of speed edge rusher who can come in and bend around the edge, but he converts from speed to power well, shows a strong pass rush plan and can dominate tackles on the bull rush.

Ferrell really shines against the run, showing the ability to consistently set the edge and force running backs to cut inside back towards the rest of the defense. He uses his length extremely well against the run, keeping the offensive lineman away from his body and establishing strong presence in his gap.

Simply put, Ferrell is a true three-down defensive end who could kick inside as an interior pass rusher on obvious passing downs. He is a safe prospect who could come in and play a major role for the Carolina Panthers right away.