5 draft prospects from local programs the Panthers could target in 2022

Which 2022 NFL Draft prospects emanating from local college programs could the Carolina Panthers potentially look to target this spring?

With the NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner, college prospects across the country looking to make a name for themselves at the next level are in the midst of an extremely important evaluation process that will go a long way to determining their fate. The Carolina Panthers might only have one pick in the top-100 right now, but that doesn’t mean those in power cannot acquire some exciting players to assist their cause during a critical third season under the leadership of Matt Rhule.

It’s going to be immensely interesting to see how the Panthers approach this offseason. The pressure on Rhule and others cannot be understated after such a disappointing season in 2021, which saw Carolina capitulate from 3-0 to 5-12 following a disastrous run of results.

Another similar campaign would not go down well with team owner David Tepper, who failed to swallow his pride and remove Rhule from the equation in one final hope he can make a better go of things next time around. A significant coaching overhaul loaded with NFL experience will help, but this will count for nothing if the right recruitments aren’t secured in free agency, the trade market, or via the draft.

General manager Scott Fitterer was lauded for his efforts during the 2021 draft – his first since arriving at the organization – but he’ll need all his board management class this time around if the Panthers stand any chance of making their presence felt in 2022 and beyond.

Carolina would be wise to look close to home throughout the evaluation procedures. Here are five prospects from local college programs the team could target.