North Charlotte Today

The annual NFL scouting combine is set to begin in Indianapolis next week, with defensive players taking the field starting Thursday. The Carolina Panthers, seeking to enhance their front seven after last season, will be paying close attention as they hold nine picks overall, including eight in the first five rounds.

This year's draft class is notably deep along the defensive line. NFL Network draft expert Daniel Jeremiah highlighted this during a meeting with reporters: "There's a lot of depth along the defensive front, not just edge rushers, but (also) defensive tackle."

Among those prospects is Mason Graham from Michigan, praised by Jeremiah for his performance and potential despite concerns about his stature. "He's got crazy elite leverage, balance, and instinct," Jeremiah noted.

Kenneth Grant, another Michigan player, also stands out. Described by Jeremiah as "massive" and a "people mover," Grant has shown promise but has yet to fully realize his potential.

Walter Nolen from Ole Miss offers another option outside the Top 10 for teams looking for immediate starters on the interior line. Jeremiah mentioned Nolen's fit with teams like the San Francisco 49ers due to his quickness and ability to penetrate defenses.

Jalon Walker from Georgia is one of the top names among outside linebackers. Projected by Jeremiah to go No. 8 overall to the Panthers in his latest mock draft, Walker is described as having "legit explosive burst" and exceptional leadership qualities.

Other prospects include Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M and Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss. Each brings unique strengths that make them notable contenders at this year's combine.

Jeremiah also suggested that trading back could be an option for the Panthers given their multiple needs: "When you have this many holes...you could fill a bunch of them if you could slide back a little bit."