7 prospects on defense for Panthers to watch at 2022 Scouting Combine

Carolina Panthers should watch Devin Lloyd

Jermaine Carter’s inconsistent 2021 season means the Carolina Panthers could be on the lookout for their third starting middle linebacker in as many years since the retirement of team legend Luke Kuechly. Finding a successor to such a prolific defender was always going to be a monumental task, but those in power must come up with a long-term solution to what’s become an ongoing complication.

There is a chance Carter comes back on a short-term deal. But the Panthers should also explore the possibility of selecting a college prospect from what appears to be a pretty strong second-level class overall.

One of the biggest names and arguably the most talented is Devin Lloyd. The Utah product has all the makings of a star at the next level, boasting a sideline-to-sideline athleticism that will be highly coveted by teams league-wide.

Lloyd is expected to be one of the first names called on draft night. Whether the Panthers would be wise to focus their attention on another first-round defensive pick is highly debatable, but if they do then this might be a shrewd move that can lock up a problem position for the next decade barring injury.

There appears little doubt Lloyd is going to test extremely well at the NFL Scouting Combine. Although it depends on what the Panthers end up doing in free agency as to whether or not this becomes a realistic option.