Carolina Panthers full 7-round 2022 mock draft after CFP semi-finals

Thayer Munford – OG (Ohio State)

The interior offensive line has been an absolute mess for the Carolina Panthers in 2021. Players like John Miller, Pat Elflein, Dennis Daley, and Michael Jordan aren’t up to the required standard and if the team wants to be taken seriously, this is an area that needs significant upgrades across the board.

Considering that good linemen don’t normally hit free agency – and certainly aren’t cheap – then building through the draft is the most efficient method for the Panthers.

Thayer Munford has the versatility Carolina has sought heavily in their new recruits since Matt Rhule took charge of personnel decisions. His production for Ohio State as a left guard in 2021 was encouraging overall, although the prospect does appear a little rigid in his movements at times.

From a size and length standpoint, there is a lot to like. But perhaps expecting Munford to slot in and start right away would be pushing things a little.

Depending on how Deonte Brown develops during the offseason, the Panthers could put Munford on the rotation until he is ready to fill a starting role. It’s also worth remembering that Daley and Elflein are under contract next season, but we’ve seen enough from them to suggest dependability issues cannot be solved.