5 Carolina Panthers draft rumors that won’t go away in 2022

(Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) Scott Fitterer
(Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) Scott Fitterer /
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(Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports) Charles Cross /

Carolina Panthers getting more enamored with Charles Cross

Finding a long-term left tackle has become an ongoing and frustrating predicament for the Carolina Panthers since the days of Jordan Gross. This is something the organization might finally be able to accomplish from No. 6 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, which will hopefully see one of the top-three blindside protectors available when the team goes on the clock.

Evan Neal and Ikem Ekwonu are obvious candidates if teams in the top-five go in a different direction. Another exceptional prospect that’s generating some real momentum at just the right time is Charles Cross, who is a player that could potentially come in and make a game-changing difference with Pro Bowl credentials.

According to Jonathan Alexander of the Charlotte Observer, influential figures in Carolina are starting to like Cross “more and more” – something which could lead to them taking the Mississippi State product in the first round.

Cross specializes in pass protection and this looks nothing short of elite on film. Much has been made of the Air Raid offense and how it benefits lineman, but the player has outstanding feet and is also a far better run blocker than people give him credit for.

This pick would be an instant problem-solver for the Panthers. Even though it takes away the chance to find a long-term answer at quarterback, it’s something that could arguably be their top priority with the options available.