7 defensive tackles the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers could select Perrion Winfrey (Oklahoma)

Measurements: 

• Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 290 pounds

2021 Stats:

• 40 tackles
• 5.5 sacks
• 11 tackles for loss
• 59.7 PFF Grade

Perrion Winfrey showed off his athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine and his workouts to climb draft boards. The raw ability and body type are there for him to become a good defensive tackle at the next level, but he has some negatives in his game that hold him back from being a first-round selection.

Winfrey would rotate between the weakside and strongside defensive tackle spots on the Carolina Panthers and could get a few looks in obvious passing situations. His pass-rush upside and powerful get-off would be a good asset on the rotation if the team went in this direction.

However, the lineman lacks some twitch off the snap and fluidity once engaged against blockers. But Winfrey’s strength and violence allow him to hold his own most of the time.

The draft stock for Winfrey is somewhere in Day 2. Carolina could get into the second round if they wish. However, letting Daviyon Nixon get another season of rotational snaps after an impressive rookie year possibly makes more sense.

Carolina would benefit from drafting Winfrey, but not within the first year or two. And the Panthers could use a player whose impact will be felt in their rookie year.

Winfrey could develop into a good-great pass rusher over time. With the potential reward selecting the prospect brings, drafting him if he drops to Day 3 would be tremendous value, but whether he’ll make it that far down the pecking order is another matter.