Panthers dream mock draft: The perfect haul for Carolina in 2022

Carolina Panthers select Jake Ferguson

• Tight End | Nebraska

Ian Thomas could be set for bigger and better things moving forward in Ben McAdoo’s system after the Carolina Panthers handed him a three-year extension. Hopes also remain relatively high for Tommy Tremble after an encouraging rookie campaign, which could make the tight end position relevant for the first time since Greg Olsen departed the franchise.

However, there is absolutely no guarantee either can become a true force in the passing game. So adding a gifted pass-catcher from the college ranks could be an avenue Carolina explores later on in the draft process.

Jake Ferguson looks like a player that could be of use. He is a tremendous blocker and a consistent pass-catcher for good measure, which has been sorely missed on the Panthers over the last two years.

Ferguson’s route-running is solid and his soft hands make him a threat over the middle and in the red zone. The Wisconsin product does lack some explosiveness and could also do with progressing from a power standpoint to cope with the rigors that come with the NFL.

Considering how dependable tight ends are coveted in today’s game, it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see Ferguson go much higher than this. But if the Panthers get a chance in Round No. 6 to bring him to the organization, they should.