Brady Christensen Fills Big NFL Draft Need For Carolina Panthers

PROVO –  After an All-American season at offensive tackle for the 11-1 BYU Cougars, junior Brady Christensen declared early for the NFL draft.  During Day 2 of the 2021 NFL draft, Christensen found his professional home as the Carolina Panthers selected him with the 70th pick in the 3rd round.

A lineman you said? pic.twitter.com/yWaqwrzJYs

— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) May 1, 2021

Christensen, who put together a historic performance at BYU’s Pro Day, will be tasked with solidifying a Carolina Panthers offensive line in front of newly acquired quarterback Sam Darnold and all-pro running back Christian McCaffrey.

How Brady Christensen fits with the Carolina Panthers

Coming into the 2021 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers needed to address holes in their secondary and along the offensive line. They took corner Jaycee Horn 8th overall after Desert Hills high standout Penei Sewell was selected ahead of them by the Detroit Lions. The Panthers remained patient and got great value with their pick of tackle Brady Christensen.

Let’s just say, the Panthers enjoyed BYU’s Pro Day. Signed Micah Simon after he ran a 4.34 40 and traded up for Brady Christensen in the 3rd round. #BYUFOOTBALL #GoCougs

— Dallen Graff (@lilthoint) May 1, 2021

Christensen showcased his athleticism at his Pro Day. His 10-4 broad jump is an all-time mark for offensive tackles. He added to that with 30 reps on the bench, a 34″ vertical jump and a 4.89 40-yard dash. The Panthers need athleticism and versatility along the offensive line and that’s exactly what Christensen will bring.

BREAKING: With No. 70 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the @Panthers select former BYU OL Brady Christensen (@Brady_BYU) #LocalsInTheNFL #BYU #GoCougs #BYUFOOTBALL pic.twitter.com/lOJe4E4a8P

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) May 1, 2021

At 24 years old, Christensen is the type of prospect who can come in and immediately contribute. His 31 1/4″ arms may preclude him from a full-time job as a tackle in the NFL, but Christensen can jump inside to guard and be an immediate starter in Carolina.

Offensive line personnel on Panthers roster

The Panthers brought in offensive lineman Pat Elflein and Cam Erving in free agency because of their positional versatility. However besides Taylor Moton at right tackle, the Panthers need long-term options along the offensive line.

There’s no doubt by trading up in the 3rd round to secure their guy that the opportunity will be there for Christensen. Carolina has had eight different starting tackles in the past eight seasons, so needless to say; the hope is that Brady Christensen can fill that hole.

Christensen becomes the first BYU offensive lineman selected in the NFL Draft since 2005. He joins quarterback Zach Wilson in the NFL, as Wilson was selected #2 overall by the New York Jets. The former Cougs are set to face-off during their rookie seasons with their new teams.