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

Carolina Panthers select Eyioma Uwazurike at No. 148

Bolstering the defensive line may not be seen as a major priority for the Carolina Panthers heading into free agency. But that could all change if the likes of DaQuan Jones, Marquis Haynes, and Haason Reddick all take their chances elsewhere.

In the event Jones did depart, it’s highly likely that the Panthers would look for another veteran to pair with Derrick Brown. This benefitted the former No. 7 overall selection enormously in 2021 and could see his game reach new heights in Year 3 of his professional career.

Drafting in the lower rounds comes with obvious risks. But Scott Fitterer has a good track record and if he can target a developmental defensive lineman with high upside, it will do Carolina’s long-term chances no harm at all.

Eyioma Uwazurike is one name who might enter the discussion. The former Iowa State star has experience rushing off the edge or as a three-technique on the interior, with this sort of versatility highly sought-after by the Panthers over the last two drafts.

Uwazurike is a strong space-eater who can make an impression in both phases of defensive play. There is some refinement needed technically and missed tackles became a problem on occasions, but his athletic measurables dictate someone is going to take a chance on him later on in the process.