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

Carolina Panthers select Tyrese Robinson at No. 143

Trench warfare often goes overlooked compared to the flashier positions on the field. But one only has to look at how the Cincinnati Bengals struggled to protect quarterback Joe Burrow during their Super Bowl loss against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half to see how vital protection is.

The Carolina Panthers have ignored this unit for too long. Relying on questionable veteran players such as John Miller and Cam Erving is no longer an option considering what’s at stake for Matt Rhule in the third season of his tenure.

This is a pretty deep class for offensive linemen who could become contributors right away. Tyrese Robinson fits into this mold and has a lot of the same physical attributes the Panthers have sought heavily in their first two offseasons with Rhule calling the shots.

Robinson’s time at Oklahoma was littered with memorable highlights. His strong presence on the interior and devastating hands make him a force to be reckoned with, anchoring against large defenders or coping with isolation assignments suberbly.

Arm length could be an issue that’s often been brought up in Carolina. Robinson also has a below-average recovery if he is beaten to the punch that cannot be overlooked.

However, providing the Panthers get a capable veteran or two in free agency, this could be a nice pick up on Day 3 if Robinson makes it this far.