Carolina Panthers avoid QB temptation in 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft

Jamaree Salyer – OL (Georgia)

If you don’t think the Carolina Panthers would spend three of their first four selections on the offensive line, then you clearly haven’t been paying much attention this season. Sam Darnold should get another year under center barring a catastrophic second half of the campaign, so improving the protection in front of the quarterback is of critical importance.

If the Panthers are looking for versatility and a prospect that can fill a starting spot instantly, then someone like Jamaree Salyer is an intriguing option. The Georgia lineman has been a dominant force in the Bulldogs’ memorable campaign to date and although he’s played some tackle throughout his college career, he projects to be more of an interior presence in the pros.

Salyer has even played at the center spot, which is another potential option for Carolina if they decide to cut their losses with veteran Matt Paradis. Either way, the senior is playing tremendous football that won’t be going unnoticed by NFL scouts across the country.

His stout frame is exceptionally difficult to move off the block. Salyer is a commanding force in run support and his surprising athleticism means he is more than capable in pass protection.

The Panthers shouldn’t overthink things if Salyer is available here. And unlike Deonte Brown or Brady Christensen, he wouldn’t be classed as a development project coming into the organization.