8 prospects surging up Panthers draft board after the 2022 Combine
By Dean Jones
Desmond Ridder – QB (Cincinnati)
Finding a long-term solution at quarterback is a riddle that the Carolina Panthers haven’t been able to solve since Matt Rhule took over as head coach. Sam Darnold is the latest failed starter after the team gave up three draft selections to acquire the signal-caller from the New York Jets and unless those in power get their next decision absolutely spot on, jobs could be lost.
That is a big statement to make. But that’s the long and short of it after three successive five-win seasons and almost nothing in the way of genuine progress in 2021.
According to Joseph Person of The Athletic, the Panthers were particularly impressed with Desmond Ridder‘s production at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine and Rhule was seen speaking at length to Cincinnati head coach Luke Fickle to further send the rumor mill flying.
Ridder does have some flaws, but his leadership is exceptional and there is a confidence in the prospect that could translate to the next level with a little more refinement.
Much like the situation with Zion Johnson, it’s highly unlikely that the Panthers would reach for Ridder at No. 6 overall. However, if Carolina does get a trade-down partner then it could result in the former Bearcat becoming part of the organization.
One potential obstacle is the urgency for the Panthers to win right now. Ridder isn’t considered to be a plug-and-play starter, so they’d need to take their chances with a veteran before he’s ready to take charge.