6 Senior Bowl standouts that should be on Panthers 2022 draft radar

Christian Watson – WR (North Dakota State)

Although the Carolina Panthers have some talent in their wide receiver room, acquiring another talented player to bolster their pass-catching options is a possibility. Going down the draft route would be the smartest – and cheapest – option, which could see Christian Watson enter the equation after a phenomenal week in Mobile.

Watson is the perfect blend of size and speed, making him a difficult matchup all over the field. He has no trouble whatsoever with contested catches thanks to his physique and can make things happen with the football in his hands to further enhance proceedings.

There is the small matter of Watson not facing the most elite college competition, but the North Dakota State product represents an enticing option if he can rid himself of some drop concerns at the next level.

Carolina’s over-reliance on D.J. Moore in the passing game was glaring in 2021 after Robby Anderson and Terrace Marshall Jr. failed to meet expectations. Asking someone like Watson to come in and make an immediate impact would be pushing things slightly, but there is nothing to suggest he could not make a gradual difference with additional development.

Watson’s athletic attributes should see him generate interest. Gaining more experience is key for the prospect and his production during the Senior Bowl have only helped his draft stock moving forward.