6 Senior Bowl standouts that should be on Panthers 2022 draft radar
By Dean Jones
Malik Willis – QB (Liberty)
Perhaps there was no player that helped himself more during the entire Senior Bowl week than Malik Willis. The Liberty product showcased his outstanding athleticism and elite arm strength throughout, making more than a few NFL teams sit up and take notice judging by the increased hype.
Willis might have his flaws for now. But the upside is evident and teams are always willing to take a chance on high-ceiling traits in the event they can turn into someone like Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes.
It was a small sample size of Willis on game day. However, the signal-caller still caught the eye generating big plays running the football and also made one or two difficult throws look easy.
There won’t be many rooting against Willis, who is humble, focused, and driven in equal measure. He also calls Cam Newton an influential role model, so following in his footsteps would be an enticing proposition for the player, one suspects.
The Carolina Panthers have a big decision to make. The need for a premier offensive lineman is evident, but Willis might also be a lively outsider at No. 6 overall if those in power decide to shoot their shot with a potential franchise quarterback.
Sam Darnold doesn’t appear to be the answer. But he is under contract in 2022 for a guaranteed $18.85 million, so selecting someone like Willis to sit behind the USC product before filling the void is something that should be discussed, at the very least.