Panthers 2022 draft scouting report: Ikem Ekwonu is the real deal

How would Ikem Ekwonu fit on the Carolina Panthers?

• Week 1 starting left tackle

Much will depend on how the Carolina Panthers see Ikem Ekwonu as a potential fit regarding his best position. But there is no doubt the offensive lineman would thrive as a left tackle at the next level if presented with the opportunity.

As stated previously, Ekwonu is a violent run blocker. Something the Panthers need as they prepare to implement a downhill running attack under new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo.

This would be the final piece of Carolina’s jigsaw across their protection in 2022. It still remains unlikely that Ekwonu falls out of the top five, but if teams start trading up for quarterbacks or the Detroit Lions end up taking someone like Malik Willis, then it shifts the landscape considerably.

If a team like the New York Giants goes with Evan Neal over Ekwonu, then the prospect might come into the equation. Risking the No. 6 selection on a signal-caller that might not work out is a risk, but those in power could also decide to finally find the franchise left tackle they’ve craved for some time now.

Ekwonu is also no stranger to the area having played his college football at North Carolina State. This should smooth his transition somewhat and also endear him to the team’s fanbase straight away.

There aren’t many sure things in the draft. But Ekwonu is as close as it gets and the Panthers would be a much better team if this was the pick.