The 2027 NFL Draft feels like forever away, and we’re all caught up in the start of the NFL season. Regardless, it’s never too early to look ahead to the Draft. This weekly series will take a closer look at some of the prospects the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2027 iteration of the Draft. In this series, we’ll only be looking at prospects the Panthers could seriously consider. Today our profile will focus on Alabama Crimson Tide edge defender Yhonzae Pierre.
Bio
Pierre (6’3”, 251 lbs.) used
his status as a four star recruit in Alabama to earn an All-American Bowl invitation. Despite being offered scholarships to several SEC powerhouses, Pierre chose the home state Crimson Tide. Pierre spent his freshman season in 2023 redshirted before becoming a rotational piece in 2024. While not expected to start last season, injuries to Alabama’s top edges gave Pierre an opportunity, and he never looked back. He ended up leading Alabama with 14.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks. He returned for this year and switched to number zero, taking over Deontae Lawson’s legacy. Pierre has been a bit banged up this year but has 23 tackles with 5.5 for loss and 4.5 sacks through nine games. He even added a pick six for good measure.
Strengths/Weaknesses
Pierre is a pass rushing producer, again leading Alabama in pressures with 25 so far this season. He plays the run with strength and a solid anchor, holding the point of attack well for his size. Pierre also has a knack for taking over certain games, including six pressures against Florida State this year. He’s able to use his above average athletic ability and strength to win on the outside, making a concerted effort this season of getting his hands up when his pass rush stalls (he has four passes deflected already this year).
While his pressure numbers have stayed steady, his inconsistent tackling leads to him not finishing some plays. He also loses his pad level on longer pass rush reps, allowing the offensive lineman to get him off balance. While Pierre is not a small player, he doesn’t have the elite edge defender height and weight, which could affect how he fits into some NFL defensive schemes.
Projection
Pierre is a hard working, talented edge rusher. He uses his quick start and power to perform well against the run and the pass. He’s a bit hot and cold, with his pressures coming in bunches, but the pass rush prowess is undeniable. Pierre’s ceiling is viewed as a high-end starter if he can finish better at the quarterback. He has plenty of pressures, but his counters are still developing allowing opposing quarterbacks to escape too often. With the Panthers struggling to get to the quarterback, taking an edge rusher isn’t out of the question. The problem with projecting who they might take, however, is not knowing who the long term defensive coordinator will be and what scheme they’ll implement. A 3-4 DC would likely be more open to someone like Pierre, whereas a base 4-3 coach might want someone a bit larger.
What do you think, Panthers fans? If Yhonzae Pierre is available when the Panthers select in the 2027 NFL Draft, should they take him? Sound off in the comments!
