Carolina Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: All-offense edition

Carolina Panthers select Pierre Strong Jr. – RB (South Dakota State)

Christian McCaffrey’s frustrating season ravaged by injuries – his second in succession – was a leading catalyst behind the Carolina Panthers struggling throughout the campaign. There was simply no real Plan B without the All-Pro taking up the majority of touches, so taking the pressure off and maximizing his production while keeping him healthy is of paramount importance moving forward.

Chuba Hubbard and Ameer Abdullah flashed in McCaffrey’s absence. But it might be worth the team taking another prospect during the draft that might give them another option to call upon when needed.

If this is something the organization ends up doing, then Pierre Strong Jr. might be worth a gamble at this stage of the selection process. The running back enjoyed a phenomenal 2021 season at South Dakota State with 1,489 rushing and 16 touchdowns, with his power running style exactly what Carolina is looking for right now.

Strong is also a quality receiver out of the backfield, even if this wasn’t utilized all that much. There is also the small matter of a lack of high-quality opposition in college, which is another potential red flag regarding the player.

However, if Strong can build on his positive recent momentum, then he’s sure to hear his name called at some stage. And from the Panthers’ perspective, bringing Strong in for short-yardage situations could make a massive difference.