5 Carolina Panthers draft rumors that won’t go away in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers remain high on Kenny Pickett
Perhaps no player has been linked more to the Carolina Panthers during the pre-draft process than Kenny Pickett. The former Pittsburgh standout surged up board thanks to a sensational 2021 campaign and it’s not been hard to see how those in power within the organization feel about the prospect throughout various evaluations at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine.
Pickett and Matt Rhule were linked in college and the head coach got a commitment from the quarterback at Temple before he got a better offer. General manager Scott Fitterer has also been gushing about the incoming college recruit during media availability, with league sources telling Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports that they’d be “surprised” if he made it past the Panthers at No. 6.
Outside of ambitious bids for Deshaun Watson and Russell Wilson that didn’t pan out, it’s been relatively quiet from Carolina’s point of view as they look to find an upgrade on Sam Darnold. Taking Pickett so high might be a major reach, but this could be the best way for the Panthers to find instant assistance ahead of a crucial Year 3 for Rhule.
The presence of Ben McAdoo is another big element to consider. His experience and success analyzing college quarterbacks means his voice should be one of the most important in the room before the Panthers come to a final conclusion on Pickett or anyone else they’re considering under center.
This is not the year to risk it all for a signal-caller. But the Panthers might not have a choice, in all honesty.