5 rough diamonds the Carolina Panthers could draft in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could draft Boye Mafe
As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers could be on the lookout for another talented pass-rusher after Haason Reddick left for the Philadelphia Eagles. Morgan Fox was also released by the team with one year remaining on his deal, so finding a college prospect with outstanding physical attributes is something those in power have to do this spring.
Just where that will come is undetermined. The Panthers have multiple options available to them from No. 6 overall and there is also a big chance general manager Scott Fitterer trades down for additional capital if the right offer comes along.
Regardless of which way they decide to go, they should take a long look at Boye Mafe – a stud defensive end out of Minnesota that is raw but blessed with exceptional athleticism that can be put to good use.
Mafe did his draft stock no harm at all with seven sacks and 10 tackles for loss last season. He has explosive burst, devastating hands, and also made his presence felt with an outstanding week at the 2022 Senior Bowl.
There are a number of areas where Mafe could improve to take his game to different heights. He is a liability against the run and is still a little unpolished as a pass-rusher compared to other prospects entering the league, so it’s hard to gauge just where he’ll be selected.