5 draft prospects from local programs the Panthers could target in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could target Sam Howell
Another area where the Carolina Panthers are obviously looking to strengthen is at quarterback. Sam Darnold‘s trade from the New York Jets was a complete disaster and although the organization’s urgency dictates another trade gamble could be on the way, perhaps the best avenue at this stage would be to find a college prospect that provides a longer-term option.
Finding the right one will be difficult within a less than stellar class. And drafting a quarterback could be the biggest sign yet that owner David Tepper has long-term faith in Matt Rhule despite no progress in terms of results last season.
One name that is going relatively overlooked in terms of top-10 consideration could be worth a close look by the Panthers. Sam Howell enjoyed a phenomenal college career with North Carolina and although there was slight regression in 2021, it’s worth remembering that the signal-caller lost around five primary playmakers such as Dyami Brown, Michael Carter, and Javonte Williams to the NFL.
Howell is a dual-threat that has already proven capable of rising to the big occasion. He is patient in the pocket, makes smart decisions more often than not, and also has solid intelligence pre-snap and when a specific play isn’t developing as expected.
Strengthening the offensive line might be the smart move. But if the Panthers trade down for additional capital, then perhaps Howell might come into play.