5 prospects with Matt Rhule links that the Panthers could draft in 2022
By Dean Jones
Which former college players who worked with head coach Matt Rhule could the Carolina Panthers potentially look to acquire during the 2022 NFL Draft?
Even though Matt Rhule was conspicuous by his absence at the 2022 Senior Bowl, a recent report from Jonathan Alexander of the Charlotte Observer indicates that the head coach is still getting the final say on personnel decisions. This was written into his contract by team owner David Tepper to prevent the former Baylor man from joining the New York Giants, which has come back to bite the organization in a big way over the last two years.
Many were calling for Rhule to be fired after a second-straight season with five wins. The Panthers lost 12 of their last 14 contests and this is a crucial offseason for the under-pressure figure after Tepper decided to keep him at the helm.
One of the main criticisms of Rhule during his time in Carolina is an over-reliance on players he’s worked with previously at the college level. A couple worked out, but it’s been a significant flaw in his recruitment process and something that definitely has to change moving forward.
If it doesn’t, then here are five college prospects with Rhule links that the Panthers could potentially go after this spring.
Player No. 1
Carolina Panthers could draft Kenny Pickett – QB
Although Kenny Pickett didn’t end up playing for Matt Rhule at Temple, he did commit to the program before going back on his word and the quarterback spoke highly of the coach when interviewed at the 2022 Senior Bowl. This has led many to speculate whether the Carolina Panthers will gamble on the most pro-ready prospect at the position entering the league at No. 6 overall.
This is a massive call to make. Pickett’s hand size has been labeled as a red flag and it took him a considerable period of time to break out at Pittsburgh before a phenomenal 2021 season.
The need for offensive line reinforcements is evident. But considering the ties between Rhule and Pickett, this is another potential option that cannot be ignored.