5 premier offensive linemen the Carolina Panthers should target in 2022
By Dean Jones
Which offensive linemen should the Carolina Panthers look to target in free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft to improve their fortunes?
The Carolina Panthers made no secret of their desire to strengthen the offensive line this offseason. Head coach Matt Rhule and general manager Scott Fitterer were both singing from the same hymn sheet regarding the team’s top priority in their separate exit pressers, which stems from terrible personnel moves in 2021 that saw this unit collapse under constant pressure throughout the campaign.
Whether it’s Sam Darnold, P.J. Walker, Cam Newton, or someone else under center – nothing will change unless the protection in front of them is upgraded significantly.
Perhaps Taylor Moton is the only guaranteed starter coming back. Although rookie Brady Christensen showed promise once finally introduced into the lineup and it’s far too early to be giving up on sixth-round selection Deonte Brown just yet.
With this in mind, here are five premier offensive linemen the Panthers could target via free agency or the 2022 NFL Draft.
Offensive linemen the Carolina Panthers should target this offseason.
Offensive Lineman No. 1
Tyler Linderbaum – C
- 2022 NFL Draft prospect (Iowa)
With Matt Paradis out of contract and Pat Elflein’s form erratic, upgrading the center position is something the Carolina Panthers should consider this offseason. If they decide to do this via the draft, then Tyler Linderbaum is a prospect those in power should evaluate extremely closely.
Linderbaum is a can’t miss player that is projected to be the best center prospect entering the league in a generation. The Iowa product is a powerful presence who simply dominates games from start to finish, something the Panthers haven’t had since Ryan Kalil hung up his cleats.
Carolina doesn’t possess a Day 2 pick currently. If Linderbaum was their only selection in the top-100, it would solve an instant problem.