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. This week our profile will focus on Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Chris Cole
Bio
Cole (6’3”, 235 lbs.) was the top rated
player in the entire state of Virginia, choosing to attend Georgia instead of other offers like Miami, Penn State, and Tennessee. Despite going to Georgia, Cole managed to see the field as a true freshman, even earning a SEC All-Freshman nod. He saw the field even more as a sophomore, notching 59 tackles, seven for loss, 4.5 sacks, and a couple pass breakups. So far this season, he has grown even more and become an explosive game changer for the Bulldogs’ defense. He already has 22 tackles, five for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries including an 85-yard scoop and score.
Strengths/Weaknesses
Cole is often considered one of the best cover linebackers in the Draft. He has elite speed for the position and the versatility to line up at off-ball linebacker, nickel, and even edge defender. His athleticism allows him to be a true sideline to sideline player against the pass and the run. His strong hands allow him to reroute receivers and tight ends while giving him the ability to finish tackles efficiently.
While he has produced as a pass rusher, his technique leaves quite a bit to be desired if he’s truly going to be used as a blitzer at the next level. Cole also struggles against linemen who meet him at the second level on running plays. He’s not a thumper in the run game, leaving him to occasionally get washed out by the bigger, stronger blockers.
Projection
Chris Cole is a dynamic cover linebacker with the size and speed that NFL teams look for at the next level. His coverage ability and alignment versatility add to the pros side of the chart for Cole. He doesn’t have the bona fides against the run, especially against downhill plays where he needs to use his strength instead of his speed. Devin Lloyd has been an absolute steal for the Panthers (despite paying him gobs of money), and Bobby Okereke has been a solid find as well. After those two, however, the cupboards are pretty bare after injuries to depth players and the release of Trevin Wallace. Adding another quality cover linebacker would help the Panthers run their desired zone scheme under Ejiro Evero. Even if the defensive coordinator changes next season, Cole is a versatile piece that any DC would love to have on their team.
What do you think, Panthers fans? If Chris Cole is available when the Panthers select in the 2027 NFL Draft, should they take him? Sound off in the comments!
