Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft with major first-round trade

Carolina Panthers pick No. 188: Robert Cooper – DT (Florida State)

DaQuan Jones has made an incredibly impressive start to life with the Carolina Panthers. But the veteran only joined on a one-year deal in free agency and much will depend on the money he wants regarding any possible contract extension.

Bravvion Roy and Daviyon Nixon are next in line to potentially start alongside Derrick Brown if Jones’ stay in Carolina ends next year. So it would be worth the organization acquiring another rotational piece to further bolster their options.

A prospect with the potential of Robert Cooper fits the bill. The defensive tackle turned down Alabama and Georgia in favor of Florida State, with his commanding presence against the run something that really is a sight to behold on occasions.

Cooper’s tackling is first class. He might not have the explosiveness to generate pressure consistently, but his size and strength mean there are no problems when it comes to setting the line of scrimmage and preventing gaps.

The player’s technique and length are a concern when he gets to the professional ranks. Cooper relies heavily on power to make a difference for the Seminoles, something that’s obviously going to be tougher against bigger and more imposing NFL offensive linemen.