7 interior offensive linemen the Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft
By Luke Gray
Carolina Panthers could select Luke Fortner (Kentucky)
Measurables
- Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 307 pounds
– 2021 PFF grade – 85.1
Luke Fortner has been described in this draft process as somewhat a “safe pick”. The Kentucky product ticks all the boxes without being someone who jumps off the page following some nice production from the center position.
Fortner will be a 24-year-old rookie which although slightly on the older side, the Carolina Panthers have experience of this after drafting Brady Christensen in 2021 at the same age out of BYU.
The lineman offers excellent versatility, playing more than 600 snaps at each interior position. Fortner’s strengths lay in his body control and balance, he uses his wide base to anchor himself against larger defenders and the player has quick hands and uses this to knock defenders off balance in the initial contact in pass protection.
Fortner is also noted for his ability to seek work, keeping his head on a swivel to find blocks, and playing through the whistle in an aggressive fashion.
At times though, the prospect can be slightly overmatched by larger nose tackles. As the Panthers face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Vita Vea twice a season, this may be something of concern for Carolina.
Maybe unfortunately for Fortner, he has been compared to Pat Elflein due to similar measurements and play type. The player could see himself drafted anywhere between rounds 3-5 and is someone James Campen could develop well.