Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: Trench warfare edition

Carolina Panthers select Alec Lindstrom at No. 105

It’s a long time to wait for the Carolina Panthers’ next draft pick if they don’t trade back after giving up their Day 2 selections for Sam Darnold and C.J. Henderson. However, there is still plenty of meat on the bone within a deep class and general manager Scott Fitterer is renowned for finding diamonds in the rough.

If someone like Alec Lindstrom is still available just outside the top-100, it could be something for the Panthers to consider. The talented young center enjoyed a prolific college career at Boston College and plays with a nasty streak that fans are sure to love.

Lindstrom has superb intelligence and excels in pass protection. Something the Panthers definitely need on their interior following a disastrous 2021 campaign.

While Lindstrom might not be the biggest linemen to ever play, his low body frame makes him adept in short-yardage situations and he also has the right footwork to keep interior rushers at bay, for the most part.

If there was one slight on Lindstrom, it would be athleticism. Dealing with quicker three-techniques at the next level is something he might struggle with initially, but the Panthers have Pat Elflein to potentially fill in until the prospect brushes up this area of his game with Carolina’s new offensive line coach James Campen.

From a value standpoint, Lindstrom makes a ton of sense here. Especially if Matt Paradis leaves in free agency as expected.