Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft after Championship Saturday

Carolina Panthers pick No. 192

Smoke Monday – S (Auburn)

Getting a long-term partner for Jeremy Chinn is something else the Carolina Panthers need to figure out this offseason. Juston Burris was solid if not spectacular before going out through injury once again, with his production following a similar trend to what we saw during the previous campaign upon returning to the lineup.

Sam Franklin and Sean Chandler are nothing more than backup options. But there does appear some hope surrounding Myles Hartsfield’s future with the franchise given his production of late.

Even if the Panthers land a free-agent capable of making an immediate impression, looking to the college ranks for another option is something to consider. Especially if a prospect such as Smoke Mondy was still on the board further down the draft.

Monday is a reactive player who likes to be around the action. He is physical enough to come to the second level and assist in coverage – especially against tight ends – with his aggressiveness coming in handy in blitz packages and against the run during his successful time with Auburn at the college level.

There is a small concern in open space that comes due to a lack of athleticism, to a certain extent. This would give a team like the Panthers a dilemma – would Monday be better suited to the backend or making the transition to linebacker?

That will probably be determined during the assessment process.