Panthers dream mock draft: The perfect haul for Carolina in 2022
By Dean Jones
893. . OT. Bulldogs . CHARLES CROSS. 6. player
Carolina Panthers select Charles Cross
- Offensive Tackle | Mississippi State
It’s highly unlikely that Ikem Ekwonu or Evan Neal will make it out of the top five, no matter how much the Carolina Panthers might want them to. However, it’s not impossible if someone trades up for a quarterback or there is a dash for edge rushers to kick off proceedings.
Even if Neal or Ekwonu fell, the Panthers will undoubtedly consider Charles Cross as a prospect that can potentially fill the ongoing problem at left tackle long-term. The Mississippi State product is an elite pass protector that also offers a significant amount from a run blocking standpoint despite not being tasked much with this in the Bulldogs’ Air Raid offense.
Simply put, Cross has it all.
His footwork is nothing short of phenomenal. This is matched by outstanding athleticism and power that makes it extremely difficult for opposing pass-rushers coming up against Cross.
Slotting Cross opposite stud right tackle Taylor Moton would provide the Panthers with a bookend tackle tandem of enormous quality – something they haven’t had for some time now.
There is an obvious temptation to reach for a quarterback at No. 6 or perhaps even trade back for additional draft capital. But the Panthers will never get a better chance to solve their blindside complications and if Cross makes it to them, it’s a selection those in power should make at the earliest possible opportunity.