Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL mock draft: Pro days offer a clearer picture

Carolina Panthers select DE/OLB Myjai Sanders

With the loss of star pass rusher Hasson Reddick, the Carolina Panthers now have an area of need at one of the most premier positions in football. Despite Frankie Luvu and Marquis Haynes re-signing with the organization this offseason, the lack of depth at the defensive end spot is notable.

Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos are expected to be the two starting defensive ends for Carolina in 2022 with Luvu playing in Reddick’s role and Haynes being a mainstay in the rotation. Other than that, the Panthers will need to add on to their list options considering they just let an 11-sack player walk out of the door.

Myjai Sanders is an interesting prospect.

The former Cincinnati Bearcat is quite undersized for a pass rusher despite weighing in heavier at his recent pro day and does not provide a ton of mass for growth. However, Sanders will add more speed and quickness to the edge rotation that the Panthers currently lack.

In some cases, Sanders is Brian Burns-lite due to his quick get-off, pass-rush skills, wingspan, athleticism, and size concerns. Like the former first-round selection out of Florida State, he’s a high-effort player that defensive coordinator Phil Snow would enjoy having on his unit.

There is a good chance Sanders goes much higher than this now that some weight issues have been put to rest. But if he is still on the board here, the Panthers shouldn’t hesitate.