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

Carolina Panthers select Nephi Sewell

It’s been a revolving door at linebacker for the Carolina Panthers since the legendary Luke Kuechly opted to retire after eight seasons. The team recently signed Damien Wilson and Cory Littleton in free agency, so it appears as if they’ll be on their third starter in as many seasons after Jermaine Carter’s inconsistencies during the 2021 campaign.

The Panthers have improved depth at the second level. But it might be a good year to draft a player that can come in and potentially become a solid depth chart piece with room to grow.

Nephi Sewell has some faults, obviously. But if he is still around relatively late in Day 3 of the draft then it would be wise for the Panthers to explore the pros and cons.

Sewell has some nice explosiveness. He is tough between the tackles and comes with athletic traits Carolina has sought heavily in previous drafts under the current regime.

There is the matter of Sewell being a little undersized to consider, which will impact his draft stock. His pass-rushing could also use some refinement and angles in run support aren’t nearly as consistent as NFL teams would like them to be.

Taking a flyer on Sewell in the hope he can become an NFL-caliber player is worth the risk. Especially if the draft pans out this way for the Panthers.