Carolina Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: All-offense edition
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers select Cole Turner – TE (Nevada)
The Carolina Panthers still have high hopes for Tommy Tremble, their third-round pick out of Notre Dame who flashed real promise during his rookie season. New offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo must find a way to get the tight end more involved next time around, but it might be worth the organization getting another exciting pass-catching prospect from the college ranks with Ian Thomas out of contract.
Carolina has missed the reliable production of Greg Olsen after the Pro Bowler left in free agency before the 2020 season. Considering their needs elsewhere, the Panthers might have to wait until a little later on in the draft and if this scenario comes to fruition, then Cole Turner is someone to monitor.
Turner converted from a wide receiver to the tight end position in 2020 and thrived in his new role. His is a big-bodied, athletic presence across the middle or in the red zone, which is reflected by the 10 touchdowns he attained during the previous campaign.
Again, someone like Turner could enhance their stock at the Senior Bowl in the face of sterner competition. But there is a lot to like about his particular set of skills making a smooth transition to the next level.
Blocking efficiently seems to be the biggest worry regarding Turner, who will also need to bulk up somewhat to cope with the NFL. However, there is a lot to work with and he could be a shrewd addition in the mid-rounds.