Carolina Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: Pre-Combine edition

Carolina Panthers select Tyler Linderbaum

Strengthening the offensive line is of paramount importance for the Carolina Panthers this offseason. Even if the organization manages to acquire a veteran or two capable of providing immediate assistance, looking to a strong group of college prospects would be another shrewd move with the long-term in mind.

It didn’t appear as if the Panthers were willing to take an interior protector early in their 2021 draft process. However, Tyler Linderbaum is not your average center.

The former Iowa stud is projected to be the best prospect at the position to enter the league in many years. Linderbaum is an absolute stud in almost all facets of the game and plays with a mentality that is sure to go down extremely well wherever he ends up.

There are very few sure things in the draft. Simply put, Linderbaum is as close as it gets and if the Panthers do end up trading down, he could be in play depending on how the board plays out.

With Matt Paradis out of contract and Pat Elflein’s evident inconsistency, Linderbaum represents a sure-fire successor for the great Ryan Kalil, who enjoyed a glittering 12-year career in Carolina that resulted in two All-Pro and five Pro Bowl selections.

That is a high bar to aim for, but Linderbaum has the talent to accomplish similar feats providing he stays clear of injury.