5 potential Panthers first-round 2022 draft targets nobody is talking about
By Dean Jones
Myjai Sanders – DE/OLB (Cincinnati)
Strengthening the defensive side of things would be a big shock in the first round. But the Carolina Panthers have gone against the grain before and might consider doing the same again if certain players don’t stick around beyond the campaign.
Haason Reddick is earning himself some major money this season with some truly outstanding performances since joining the team in free agency. Marquis Haynes is also out of contract, so addressing the pass-rush could become a bigger priority than it is right now.
If the Panthers shockingly went in this direction, then Myjai Sanders is gaining some significant momentum. The edge presence has been sensational for high-flying Cincinnati in 2021 and is sure to attract plenty of suitors en route to being a surprise first-round pick.
Sanders is athletic, explosive, and relentless. These traits should serve the prospect well once he gets to the next level.
The player could be better suited to a stand-up edge rusher at outside linebacker thanks to his frame, which Sanders needs to bulk up in order to make a real go of things in the NFL.
Working on his pre-snap reads would also work in the player’s favor.
However, there is a lot to like about the skills that Sanders brings to the table. But other positional groups will probably take priority when push comes to shove in Carolina.