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

Carolina Panthers select William Dunkle

• Offensive Line | San Diego State

If things go like this for the Carolina Panthers, it has the potential to become a monumentally successful draft. The offensive line could be much-improved with their decision to select Charles Cross, which also means Brady Christensen’s presence at the left guard spot would be an instant upgrade on anything the team had at the position last season.

Finding better depth options shouldn’t be overlooked entirely, either. The likes of Cam Erving, Pat Elflein, and Dennis Daley all performed below expectations in 2021 and there is just no telling what the Panthers have in Deonte Brown just yet after a complicated rookie campaign.

Carolina has done well with its seventh-rounders in recent years. Taking a flyer on William Dunkle with their final selection in 2022 could be worth its weight in gold in the coming years.

Dunkle entered NFL consideration thanks to an exceptional final season at San Diego State, which resulted in a phenomenal 95.2 grade from Pro Football Focus. He is strong, intelligent, and plays with a nasty streak that really comes across in run blocking.

There is a big issue regarding the lineman’s footwork that needs some significant coaching in the pros. Dunkle also needs to develop his pass protection technique to stand any chance of carving out a successful career for himself.

Nothing much would be expected of Dunkle if he was drafted this low. So the Panthers could progress his skills at their own pace and see how the prospect responds.