Malik Willis gives Carolina Panthers plenty to think about at pro day

A sensational showcase of throwing ability from Malik Willis at his pro day has given the Carolina Panthers plenty to think about ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft.

After going mob-handed to Kenny Pickett’s pro day, it was straight onto a jet and off to Liberty for the Carolina Panthers as their quarterback roadshow continued. This time, it was Malik Willis under the microscope, a player that is generating buzz like no other after a flawless evaluation process so far.

Willis has emerged as one of the real enigmas from this year’s draft class. His physical attributes coupled with some exciting athletic traits seem ready-made for a successful pro career at some stage, even if he might take a year or two to fully define his craft.

Time is a luxury the Panthers don’t have right now. That’s what happens when you overpay for Teddy Bridgewater and give up three draft picks over a two-year period for a reclamation project gone wrong in Sam Darnold.

Carolina is now ready to move onto their third starting signal-caller in as many seasons since Matt Rhule was hired from the college system. Another false move will come with big changes and that’s why this stage of the assessment process is going to be pivotal for those in power as this does appear to be their final chance of getting things correct under center.

Malik Willis is a gamble the Carolina Panthers might take at No. 6

Willis took the field for his pro day on Tuesday in front of another strong contingent from the Panthers. Other NFL teams were also represented and the former Liberty star gave everyone in attendance a show with some remarkable throws that further highlighted what he could potentially bring to the professional ranks.

Whether Willis has done enough to become the Panthers’ pick at No. 6 is another matter. They clearly love Pickett and spent considerable time with the player this week, with rumors swirling for some time that Carolina is fixated on the former Pittsburgh stud.

A lot can change, obviously.

But passing on the elite traits that Willis clearly possesses is a huge call to make.

There is plenty to think about. Matt Corrall and Desmond Ridder will also be showcasing their skills at pro days this week, with North Carolina product Sam Howell also staking his claim for a first-round selection in the not-too-distant future.

Willis does have some faults, but there are very few college quarterbacks that don’t when they enter the NFL. However, the Panthers could do with whoever they take being ready from Week 1 or soon after – something that could bring more trouble than its worth on a brutal 2022 schedule.

With the Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks both looking for a quarterback after trading away Matt Ryan and Russell Wilson, there is a chance they fall in love with someone like Willis and trade up to No. 5 ahead of Carolina to ensure they get their guy. Another element to this critical equation that must be considered.

Willis has two things that cannot be coached – the right mindset and an arm that is out of this world. His football IQ reportedly blew away front office personnel at the NFL Scouting Combine and he is clearly someone that players and fans will gravitate towards if he does end up in Carolina.

If Willis is drafted, then Cam Newton should follow. The pair are closely connected and having his hero as a mentor would undoubtedly do wonders for the prospect’s transition.

Simply put, this would be a dream scenario for many supporters. But the Panthers might have other ideas.