8 prospects surging up Panthers draft board after the 2022 Combine
By Dean Jones
Tariq Woolen – CB (UTSA)
The Carolina Panthers banked heavily on high athletic traits during the first draft under Scott Fitterer and Matt Rhule working as a tandem. This brought some high-value players in the later rounds and hopefully, this is a trend that can continue in 2022 and beyond.
If this is a formula Carolina uses once again this time around, then it’s likely Tariq Woolen will be on their radar after an extraordinary performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. The 6-foot-4 cornerback blazed a trail during his 40-yard dash and backed this up with a solid effort during various other drills.
Woolen converted from a wide receiver to the defensive side of the football with great success at UTSA. He is a formidable asset against the run and has the anticipation to potentially become a productive starter in time if allowed to develop at his own pace.
The prospect is still a little raw having only played the position for two years. Woolen is sometimes too aggressive for his own good, which NFL quarterbacks will figure out and take advantage of in a hurry unless adjustments are made.
Carolina has some exciting young cornerbacks to build around, but another option could be sought if Donte Jackson and Stephon Gilmore both depart in free agency. Woolen does need some work, but the ceiling could be very high indeed.