5 potential problem-solvers the Carolina Panthers could draft in 2022
By Dean Jones
Tyler Linderbaum – C (Iowa)
Another area where the Carolina Panthers could use a long-term solution is at the center position. Matt Paradis is injured and out of contract, with veteran Pat Elflein too inconsistent to be relied upon.
Fortunately for the Panthers, there could be an answer to their prayers early in the 2022 NFL Draft. Tyler Linderbaum is projected to be the best center prospect entering the league in a generation, boasting Day 1 starting potential that could become a Pro Bowler in no time at all.
Linderbaum is a unique athlete for a player his size. His hand placement is nothing short of exceptional and this is matched by ferocious strength that makes him incredibly difficult to move off the block.
Communication is another area where Linderbaum thrives. One has to look pretty hard for a bad rep or two from his time at Iowa and whoever drafts him this spring is going to have an instant difference-maker on their hands.
Slotting him onto the interior instantly improves the Panthers. And make no mistake, unless this area of the field gets fixed, it doesn’t matter who is at quarterback.
Perhaps trading down is an option if Carolina has its sights set on Linderbaum. But there’s every chance he’ll end up being a top-10 pick – so this represents a big risk.