Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft: Needs shift after Week 1 of free agency

Carolina Panthers select Neil Farrell Jr.

DaQuan Jones signed for the Buffalo Bills shortly after free agency began and the Carolina Panthers released Morgan Fox as part of a cost-cutting measure. The team did sign Matt Ioannidis following his release by the Washington Commanders, but whether this is enough to tempt them from drafting another enticing prospect on Day 3 of the 2022 NFL Draft is another matter.

In truth, this is entirely dependent on the development of Bravvion Roy and Phil Hoskins. There is also Daviyon Nixon’s potential for further growth to consider despite his rookie campaign ending early through injury.

If the Panthers are looking for a space-eating defensive tackle that has the scope to be a high-impact performer, then Neil Farrell Jr. is someone to monitor. His power at the point of attack is first-class and the prospect is incredibly difficult to shift off the block once he gets the upper hand.

While Farrell wouldn’t be the most athletic prospect at the position, he has demonstrated some pass-rushing instincts during his time at LSU. The player also commanded plenty of double-teams in college, which could free up space for the likes of Derrick Brown, Brian Burns, and Marquis Haynes to do damage.

This is a low-risk, high-reward pickup for somebody. Carolina normally likes their prospects with a little more versatility, but they should take a good look at Farrell regardless.