Projecting what could happen before the Panthers pick at No. 6 – 2.0
By Dean Jones
Options available to the Carolina Panthers at No. 6
- Ikem Ekwonu – OL (NC State)
- Charles Cross – OT (Mississippi State)
- Kenny Pickett – QB (Pittsburgh)
- Sauce Gardner – CB (Cincinatti)
- Kyle Hamilton – S (Notre Dame)
- Trade back
If the top five ends up going this way, which nobody truly knows for sure, then the Carolina Panthers would have an abundance of options at No. 6 overall. Just which way they’ll go is the big question that could come with franchise-altering ramifications.
Obviously, finding an elite left tackle cannot be ignored. It’s been a revolving door since Jordan Gross retired and if Ikem Ekwonu and Charles Cross were on the board, this opportunity should not be passed up.
It’s no secret that the Panthers are also high on Kenny Pickett, who looks to be the most pro-ready quarterback entering the league this year. Gambling on the former Pittsburgh standout this high would be a risk, obviously, but Carolina needs an upgrade on Sam Darnold right away and if they feel this is the guy, then the signal-caller will be the selection.
Perhaps taking a luxury such as Sauce Gardner or Kyle Hamilton is not really an option. But given Scott Fitterer’s desire to take the best player available, it cannot be dismissed entirely.
Fitterer would be remiss not to seek trade down options. But there would be no better time to finally solve their blindside woes with two exceptional prospects to choose from.
Carolina Panthers pick: Charles Cross
Must Read. Carolina Panthers 7-round 2022 mock draft: Stud OT headlines great haul. light
Preference is for Cross rather than Ekwonu, although there is very little between the top-three tackles. His unbelievable ability in pass protection and underrated run blocking make this a safe pick – one that could turn Carolina’s offensive line into a force at last.