5 draft prospects that could help Sam Darnold most in 2022

Tyler Linderbaum could help Sam Darnold

Sam Darnold had some obvious problems from a personal standpoint, with his decision-making under pressure high on the list and something that’s been prevalent throughout the player’s career. The only way we’ll know for sure whether this complication can be resolved is by forming a cohesive offensive line that ensures there will be no more excuses if the quarterback is given a reprieve.

It might not be the sexiest pick imaginable, but Tyler Linderbaum could be the safest of the entire draft. The Iowa product is projected to be the best center prospect entering the league in a generation and this would be an instant problem-solver for the Carolina Panthers with Matt Paradis out of contract and unlikely to return.

Linderbaum’s communication and ability to protect exceptionally see him enter as a Day 1 starter with All-Pro potential. That is a high ceiling to aim for, but nothing the lineman isn’t more than capable of.

Carolina could roll with Pat Elflein at the center position after he showed an upturn in production once Paradis suffered a torn ACL against the New England Patriots. But if the Panthers want a long-term solution and a successor to the great Ryan Kalil, then Linderbaum is the cream of the crop.

This would be a huge asset for Darnold. He might not be the team’s starter when it’s all said and done, but the Panthers dug themselves into this hole and have to ride it out one way or another.