2020 NFL mock draft: Justin Herbert lands with the Chargers

There are some standout defensive players in this draft class, and at pick No. 7, the Carolina Panthers are in prime position to get one. The Panthers went into the offseason with a question mark at quarterback, as Cam Newton’s health has been an issue, but he has since been released and replaced with Teddy Bridgewater.

Another legendary Panthers player who is gone is Luke Kuechly, a Hall of Fame linebacker who was the heart and soul of this Panthers defense for many years. Kuechly is going to be a tough guy to replace, but in Isaiah Simmons, they would be adding the most versatile defensive player in this draft class to fill that void.

Simmons played all over the field during his time at Clemson, and at the NFL level, he could be used on the edge, at linebacker, and even at safety. This Panthers team should be a fun one to watch next season, and in Simmons, they could be getting a Derwin James-type talent that can become the new leader on this defense.

The Arizona Cardinals pulled off quite the heist during the first day of the new league year, agreeing with the Houston Texans on a trade for wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Heading into that deal, the wide receiver spot was definitely one they should have looked to target at pick No. 8, but now they can turn their attention elsewhere.

Last year, the Cardinals picked quarterback Kyler Murray with the No. 1 overall pick despite picking a quarterback in the first round the year before in Josh Rosen. Murray had a terrific rookie season, winning the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, and he now goes into Year 2 with a trio at wideout that consists of Hopkins, Larry Fitzgerald, and Christian Kirk.

Up front along the offensive line, the Cardinals did bring back D.J. Humphries at tackle, but they need more help at that position group moving forward. Tristan Wirfs from Iowa dominated the NFL Scouting Combine, and teaming with Humphries, Murray has his bookend tackles for the foreseeable future.