Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft after Championship Saturday

Carolina Panthers pick No. 152

Micah McFadden – LB (Indiana)

Strengthening the second level might become more of a priority depending on the situations with Jermaine Carter, Haason Reddick, Frankie Luvu, and Shaq Thompson. Three are out of contract and in Thompson’s case, a huge pay increase in 2022 leaves his future in some doubt despite putting in some exceptional performances this season.

The Carolina Panthers can ill-afford to have a weak linebacker corps, especially when it comes to getting after the quarterback and stopping the run. If they want to give this area of the field another boost during the draft, then a prospect with the capabilities of Micah McFadden represents an intriguing possibility.

McFadden has been the heartbeat of Indiana‘s defense over the last two seasons. His relentless motor and superb instincts could transition well to the NFL and especially considering how little the Panthers have managed to generate pressure from the interior throughout the current campaign.

The linebacker has racked up 25.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, and 136 tackles over the last two seasons. In just 20 games to be precise.

There is some refinement needed when it comes to run-stopping and gap discipline on early downs. If McFadden can make the necessary improvements then he’s going to be a key contributor in no time at all.