5 mid-round draft studs the Carolina Panthers must consider in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must consider Kellen Diesch
- Offensive Tackle | Arizona State
The Carolina Panthers have done a solid job of strengthening their offensive line in free agency. Bradley Bozeman and Austin Corbett bring proven production and playoff experience to the organization, but with the long-term position of Brady Christensen still undecided, it appears as if finding a left tackle is among the team’s top priorities.
If the Panthers opt to gamble on a quarterback in Round 1, then they need to secure a diamond in the rough later on that could assist sooner than expected. Kellen Diesch is a tremendously athletic prospect worthy of consideration and has done his chances of a potential mid-round selection no end of good during the evaluation process so far.
Diesch has all the size and length needed to become a real success at the next level. He is quick out of his stance and has more than enough agility to keep defenders in front of him in pass-blocking situations.
Despite coming with only one year of starting college experience, Diesch boasts fantastic awareness and has the sort of movement that already looks NFL-ready. This is matched by eye-catching power and although he’ll need to bulk up a little in the pros, there is a lot to like about the prospect’s upside.
The Arizona State product could go anywhere from Rounds 3-5 depending on which teams show interest. If he’s still around by the fourth round and Carolina is still seeking offensive line help, they would be wise to pull the trigger.