Panthers full 7-round NFL mock draft if Cam Newton stays in 2022

Amari Gainer – LB (Florida State)

Although the linebacker room looks pretty solid, there are some questions that need to be answered this offseason. The Carolina Panthers have Jermaine Carter, Haason Reddick, and Frankie Luvu all out of contract, with former first-round pick Shaq Thompson’s $18.26 million salary-cap hit in 2022 also set to come under the microscope.

That makes finding some potential depth a necessity if one or two key men depart. But hopefully, the Panthers will be able to keep all of their defense together next season and beyond.

Either way, Amari Gainer makes a ton of sense here. The Florida State sensation is a rangy playmaker that makes things happen at the second level, possessing the physical attributes that normally make a smooth transition to the professional ranks.

Gainer can do it all. Whether it be in run support, in coverage, or simply being a sideline-to-sideline presence and using his instincts, there isn’t much the player cannot do on the football field.

One area where Gainer needs to improve is recognizing backfield routes. He must also spend some considerable time in the weight room in pursuit of improving strength and durability against more physically imposing NFL players.

There’s a lot to like about his potential. And this would be a great spot for Gainer providing the Panthers retain their current options.