Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft after Championship Saturday
By Dean Jones
147. player. 819. . C. Fighting Irish . JARRETT PATTERSON
Carolina Panthers pick No. 147
Jarrett Patterson – C (Notre Dame)
If you’re sensing a theme here, it’s because there needs to be.
The Carolina Panthers have one guaranteed starter on their offensive line next season in Taylor Moton, the stud right tackle who remains their one bright spot across the unit.
That’s it.
Although someone like Jarrett Patterson might not be a Day 1 starter, veteran Pat Elflein has been competent overall at the center position since Matt Paradis was ruled out for the season and could probably hold down the fort until the Notre Dame prospect is ready to assume command.
This gives the Panthers four new rookie linemen, which could bring its’s own complications in terms of inexperience and cohesion. However, this could be exactly what the team needs long-term.
Picture this for stable protection in the coming years:
- Taylor Moton – RT
- Kenyon Green – RG
- Pat Elflein/Jarrett Patterson – C
- Jamaree Salyer – LG
- Rasheed Walker – LT
Sure, there would be some growing pains. But this represents a significant upgrade on anything Carolina has sent out onto the field this season.
Patterson was originally recruited as a tackle before switching. Although his athletic attributes aren’t great, he is consistent at the line of scrimmage and is an exceptional communicator from the center spot.