Carolina Panthers full 7-round 2022 mock draft after CFP semi-finals
By Dean Jones
Which way will the Carolina Panthers go with their 2022 NFL Draft selections as the all-important evaluation process fast approaches?
Another season of mediocrity is coming to a close for the Carolina Panthers. Almost no progression has been made overall in Year 2 of Matt Rhule’s tenure as head coach, meaning big changes could be on the way both across the roster and within a coaching staff that is clearly under pressure.
With just over $29 million in salary-cap space remaining and plenty of veterans looking for new deals, the Panthers have their work cut out. Especially considering they don’t currently possess a Day 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft after trading for Sam Darnold and C.J. Henderson.
Carolina has talent. Although some problem positional groups are holding them back and need reinforcing in a big way this offseason.
Using Pro Football Network‘s simulator, we took a look at which way the Panthers might go with their draft selections in our latest seven-round mock following the college football playoff semi-finals.
Round No. 1 (Trade)
Carolina Panthers trade down from No. 7 overall
Gaining additional draft capital is of critical importance for the Panthers. But if Alabama’s stud left tackle Evan Neal is somehow still on the board, then Carolina would be wise to select him and worry about the rest later.
That wasn’t the case in this scenario. So the Panthers struck a deal with the Los Angeles Chargers for two draft picks that can be put to good use on Day 2.
General manager Scott Fitterer was extremely active in the trade market in 2021. Expect him to be moving up and down the board plenty once again next time around.