Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft: Pro days offer a clearer picture
Which direction could the Carolina Panthers go with their 2022 NFL Draft selections after a busy week of pro-day activity?
As the NFL enters its third official week in the wildest offseason in recent memory, the Carolina Panthers remained relatively quiet in free agency. However, the organization was making noise at college pro days as influential figures within the front office continue their search for their franchise quarterback.
The Panthers were very active in free agency early on with key signings such as offensive linemen Austin Corbett and Bradley Bozeman, safety Xavier Woods, and defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis. General manager Scott Fitterer was also able to secure long-term extensions with star wide receiver D.J. Moore and cornerback Donte Jackson.
Carolina’s top brass was in attendance for pro days at Liberty, Pittsburgh, and Ole Miss, while other front office personnel attended Cincinnati’s Pro Day on Thursday. With plenty of notable free agent pick-ups and key extensions, the front office will move forward towards the NFL Draft with left tackle and quarterback being the two biggest areas of need.
Using The Draft Network’s simulator, we took a look at how the quarterback-needy Panthers could approach the upcoming draft heading into the third week of free agency.
Round No. 1 (Trade)
Carolina Panthers trade down from No. 6 overall
After trading for Sam Darnold and cornerback C.J. Henderson last season, the Carolina Panthers are left with just one pick during the first 100 selections of the draft. Keeping in mind Scott Fitterer’s background from his time with the Seattle Seahawks, trading back is a serious possibility for the franchise if the opportunity presents itself.
In this scenario, the Panthers can strike a deal with the Houston Texans that gives them another selection on Day 2 of the draft while adding an extra fourth-rounder. This deal would move out of range for any blue-chip talent at offensive tackle such as Alabama’s Evan Neal and North Carolina State’s Ikem Ekwonu.