Panthers Star Lotulelei will take next step as elite defensive tackle
For Star Lotulelei, it’s all in the name. The 2013 14th-overall selection is going to be a star in the NFL.
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Carolina head coach Ron Rivera thinks his second-year defensive tackle will take the next step. Lotulelei doesn’t know what that means. It’s a common phrase in sports thats all too general. So Lotulelei’s not taking it too seriously is understandable.
But if there’s one way to establish yourself elite on the defensive line, it’s by rushing the passer.
The former Utah stud has brought all the run-plugging ability the Panthers could ask for. The defense averaged 3.7 yards allowed per carry on 240 carries when he was on the field, via ESPN.com. When he was off the field, that average jumped to 4.5 yards on 112 carries.
He’s dominant in run situations — stats show that. Stats also show that he’s lacking in the pass-rushing department. He’s got three career sacks. Sometimes, stats lie. He’s got all the potential. Panthers’ sack master recognized it early.
After Lotulelei had his first sack last season, Greg Hardy proclaimed: “He’s not a star. He’s a superstar. And this superstar is a beast. I see some crazy things for his future. When and if he does keep developing, he’s going to be unstoppable.”
Lotulelei was a possible first-overall selection before he was diagnosed with heart issues at the NFL combine. His issues were cleared soon after, but he slipped to the Panthers. They couldn’t be happier about it.
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