Panthers full 7-round NFL mock draft if Cam Newton stays in 2022
By Dean Jones
856. . QB. Cowboys . SPENCER SANDERS. 146. player
Spencer Sanders – QB (Oklahoma State)
This was a high-value pick more than anything else. Plus there wouldn’t be a significant amount of pressure on Spencer Sanders making a lasting contribution with the Carolina Panthers, so it could be a nice development project for quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan if Cam Newton is extended.
Spencer is renowned for being a gunslinger. Someone that can conjure up something out of nothing.
His arm strength is notable and he can get out on the move with sneaky athleticism. Even if the Oklahoma State star isn’t blessed with the stereotypical height of an NFL quarterback.
That notion diminished in significance over the years following the success of players such as Kyler Murray, Drew Brees, and Russell Wilson. And if the Panthers went in this direction, it would allow Sanders to learn from Newton without the veteran ever becoming threatened.
Just what the Panthers are going to do with Sam Darnold is another matter. The team inexplicably picked up his fifth-year option and $18.58 million guaranteed, but his production this season means that it would be extremely difficult for Carolina to find a willing trade partner.
There is also a chance the Panthers don’t decide to take a quarterback in 2022, keep both Newton and Darnold around, and look to what appears to be a 2023 class full of enticing prospects.