Panthers Pick Up Fifth-Year Option on DT Derrick Brown

Carolina makes a decision on Derrick Brown.

As expected, the Carolina Panthers will pick up the fifth-year option on defensive tackle Derrick Brown, the team announced Monday.

The former seventh overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft has become a key fixture on the Panthers' defense despite having a mini-slump during his sophomore season in 2021.

In three seasons with the team, Brown has accumulated 142 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 33 QB hits, and six sacks. This past season was his best as he set a single-season career high in tackles (67) and QB hits (12), to go along with five tackles for loss and a sack. 

With Carolina switching to a 3-4 defensive scheme under Ejiro Evero, Brown will play more of a defensive end position, which should allow him to generate more of a pass rush. Free agent addition Shy Tuttle is slated to start at the nose. 

You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:

Facebook - @PanthersOnSI

Twitter - @AllPanthers_ and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_.