5 Panthers draft picks who must reach their potential in 2022
By Dean Jones
Yetur Gross-Matos – Carolina Panthers DL
After two seasons where Yetur Gross-Matos has flashed from a rotational role, much more is expected in Year 3 of his professional career. The former second-round pick out of Penn State certainly looks capable of putting together some meaningful production from a starting role and providing further improvements are made this offseason, the Carolina Panthers have a real player on their hands.
Gross-Matos is evolving into a key cog on Carolina’s defensive front. He’s made his presence felt rushing off the edge, is improving against the run, and is also thriving as a three-technique defensive tackle in obvious passing situations.
With Haason Reddick, DaQuan Jones, and Marquis Haynes all out of contract, the Panthers will be counting on Gross-Matos fulfilling his undoubted potential in 2022. Something the player looks more than ready for based on his strong end to the current campaign.
Around the third season is when players along the defensive line start showing out and letting people know what they are truly capable of. Matt Rhule was highly complimentary of Gross-Matos during his exit presser, so there could be a bigger role and a massive opportunity awaiting the explosive individual next time around.
If Gross-Matos can make the most of it, then a genuine breakout season could be on the horizon.