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

Carolina Panthers could draft Chigoziem Okonkwo (Maryland)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 250 pounds

2021 Stats:

• 52 receptions
• 447 receiving yards (8.6 YPR)
• 5 touchdowns
• 69.0 PFF grade

Chigoziem Okonkwo, other than possibly having the best name in this draft, is an exceptional pass-catching option at the tight end position. Showing great ball carrier skills and a well-developed route tree that should translate well to the NFL level.

A player that lined up at multiple positions and was used in a myriad of ways including in designed runs, Okonkwo has the versatility to thrive in the NFL given the opportunity and enough time to develop the skills necessary to be a more complete player.

Carolina Panthers could draft Gerrit Prince (UAB)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-5 | Weight: 240 pounds

2021 Stats:

• 36 receptions
• 699 receiving yards (19.4 YPR)
• 10 touchdowns

Gerrit Prince is a converted wide receiver and it shows with his route running expertise and ability with the ball in his hands. However, that conversion also shows in a lack of size and strength as for as the NFL is concerned.

Prince is intriguing as a developmental project and if he can bulk up some could be a true star at the position in a few years.

There are plenty of draft-worthy tight ends in the mid to late rounds of the 2021 draft. So don’t be surprised if you see a run on the position late on Day 2 into Day 3.

This is a position of need for the Carolina Panthers, albeit not a glaring one. If one of these prospects should fall into the later rounds the team would be wise to look their way.