In a league that doesn’t have a huge separation between good and great players, athletes are always looking for ways to push themselves to the next level. No matter who you are, doubters and naysayers are always a source of motivation. So many people have doubted athletes reaching their dreams before; it makes sense to draw from that well again and again. Michael Jordan was famous for using criticism as fuel to perform, execute game plans, and lead his team to victory.
Although Derrick Brown is not Michael Jordan, expect his play to galvanize the Panthers and set the tone for a big win against the Seahawks on Sunday afternoon.
Sep 8, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Derrick Brown (95) walks off the field before the game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Stats, Disruption, and Dominance: Why Brown Should’ve Been a Pro Bowler
This year, Jalen Carter, Leonard Williams, and Quinnen Williams were selected as Pro Bowlers. Carter and Williams were chosen as starters, and all three certainly earned the honor. But when looking at the stats, it’s puzzling that Derrick Brown was not selected over at least one of them.
Jalen Carter: Total tackles: 32 (20 solo, 12 assisted), Sacks: 2, Batted passes: 5
Leonard Williams: Total tackles: 59 (33 solo, 26 assisted), Sacks: 7, Batted passes: 1
Quinnen Williams: Total tackles: 51 (25 solo, 26 assisted), Sacks: 2.5, Batted passes: 1
Derrick Brown: Total tackles: 54 (25 solo, 29 assisted), Sacks: 5, Batted passes: 7
Looking at the numbers, Brown clearly makes a case. He has more batted passes than any of the selected defensive linemen, showing his ability to disrupt the passing game. He’s also second in sacks among the group, and his tackle numbers are higher than Quinnen Williams and nearly match Leonard Williams. Advanced metrics tell the same story—Brown outperforms Carter in almost every category except quarterback hurries.
But this isn’t just about stats or awards. Derrick Brown has a way of changing a game without anyone noticing until it’s too late. He does the things that great interior Defensive Linemen do. He can collapse the pocket, force bad throws, and make plays that swing momentum in Carolina’s favor. Against the Seahawks, that could be huge. Sam Darnold is a smart quarterback, but when the middle of the line disappears, it can make any quarterback uncomfortable. Even the best quarterbacks can make mistakes when big men are in your face, and that’s where Brown shines.
Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White (1) is tackled by Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Derrick Brown (95) during the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Turning Snubs into Motivation: Derrick Brown’s Fuel for Impact
His Pro Bowl snub might actually be the best thing for Carolina. There’s nothing like a little disrespect to fire someone up, and you can bet Brown is going to use it as motivation. Although Jaycee Horn has been selected, their other leader is being disrespected. The defense understands that when he’s on, the entire unit plays better. Linebackers are cleared up to flow and can attack faster. Defensive backs get cleaner looks at the ball due to the quarterback having to release the ball a tad sooner. The Panthers as a whole just feel faster, more physical, more in control.
Sunday is the perfect stage for Derrick Brown to show why he should’ve been a Pro Bowler. Not to mention Leonard Williams will be on the other side of the field watching. Although they do not go up against each other, you can never pass up the opportunity to show off for a peer. If he can dominate the line of scrimmage, bat passes, and disrupt Seattle’s rhythm, it won’t just be another stat line—it could set the tone for the whole game. The Panthers need him to be at his best, and don’t be surprised if his energy spreads to the rest of the team.
Setting the Tone for Playoff Contention: Carolina Needs Derrick Brown
A big Derrick Brown performance has bigger implications. The Panthers are still fighting for playoff positioning, and every game matters. If Brown brings the intensity, collapses the pocket, and sets the tone on Sunday, it won’t just help this game but the postseason.
Bottom line: Derrick Brown isn’t just a great player; he’s a difference-maker. His snub is Carolina’s gain. The Seahawks are going to feel that pain.
Main Photo: [Kyle Terada] – Imagn Images