6 first-round targets for the Carolina Panthers in the 2022 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Carson Strong – QB (Nevada)
As stated previously, there is not a Trevor Lawrence in this draft. Perhaps not even a Mac Jones, Justin Fields, or Zach Wilson either.
But that doesn’t mean the cupboard is completely bare regarding quarterback prospects. Even though there is no guarantee any will become instant starters at the position as we’ve seen from the 2021 class.
Carson Strong is riding on the crest of a wave currently, displaying the arm strength and deep-ball accuracy that is highly sought after.
The signal-caller seems to have made a full recovery from a knee injury before the campaign. Although he wouldn’t be classed as the most mobile prospect to ever play the position, Strong is quick with his progressions and can make almost every throw.
Strong has an NFL-ready ability when it comes to recognizing pressure and getting the football out quickly. This gets him out of trouble from a maneuvering standpoint, but there are plenty of quarterbacks doing well across the league that wouldn’t be classed as Lamar Jackson by any stretch.
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The Nevada stud has completed 71.3 percent of his passes this season for 2,883 yards, 24 passing touchdowns, and just five interceptions for a passer rating of 159.3. Strong might also be available later in the first round, which means Carolina could potentially trade back to acquire more capital and still get someone to potentially replace Sam Darnold.