7 tight ends the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers could draft Isaiah Likely (Coastal Carolina)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 240 pounds

2021 Stats:

• 59 receptions
• 912 receiving yards (15.5 YPR)
• 12 touchdowns
• 93.3 PFF grade

Isaiah Likely lit it up at a budding Coastal Carolina program, seeming to always be open behind the defense, running free and fast. A true deep threat that lined up anywhere.

Likely has a truly ridiculous level of speed for his size and position. Approaching the game more as a receiver than a tight end and with the way of the league that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Just look at Kyle Pitts for proof of that fact.

The standout tight end is a big body with sure hands that is masterful at high pointing the football and comes down with the ball more often than not. A true threat in the red zone and in big moments when that little bit of yardage is desperately needed against a stifling defense.

Likely’s ability to line up at any position, even running back, gives him the versatility that the Carolina Panthers cherish. This could see the young tight end chosen with one of the precious few picks the team possesses.

The greatest pro to Likely’s game is also his greatest con.

Speed.

While that speed is a true weapon to be utilized, we have only seen that speed showcased to its full extent against the lower echelon of college football. That gap in downfield ability will severely narrow at the next level and solely relying on a skill that won’t be as unique will cause issues.

The other issue having that speed advantage has done is stunt the growth of Likely’s route running. On a vast majority of plays this season, the tight end has simply run a “go” route, streaking straight down the field with little in the way of movement. Every once in a while there was a shallow cross or a post, but that was the exception and not the rule.

Now comes the weakest part of his game, blocking.

The less said about this area the better as there needs to be a massive improvement to even consider leaving Likely out there to do any kind of blocking, run or pass. The skill just isn’t there for a tight end.

Likely is an intriguing prospect. One that could be a boom or a bust at the NFL level, but one that needs a lot of development to be a true weapon.

Most project Likely to be more of a receiver and possibly even make that transition in his rookie season. Given the struggles of Terrace Marshall, this would be a welcome addition.