7 interior offensive linemen the Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers could select Marquis Hayes (Oklahoma)

Measurables

• Height: 6-foot-5 | Weight: 324 pounds

– 2021 PFF grade – 75.3

The University of Oklahoma certainly has a knack for producing high-quality offensive linemen. Just 12 months ago Creed Humphrey was taken in Round 2 and has already blossomed into one of the best centers in the league. Looking further back, Trent Williams is a nine-time Pro Bowler who is arguably the most dominant left tackle in football right now.

Taking a look at Marquis Hayes’ measurements you’d be forgiven for thinking he isn’t the most athletic. At 6-foot-5 and more than 320 pounds, his talents come more in using his huge bulk, as it’s clear to see he is a man mountain on the offensive line.

Unsurprisingly the former Sooner has immense natural power which he uses to knock defenders off their stride opening up lanes for runners. This power and size stand him in good stead as a run blocker, which makes it easy for the player to wall off players in the run game.

Despite his big frame, the hulking guard displays surprising open-field quickness, moves well in open space, and has the eagerness to reach the second level and explode.

With his proficiency as a run blocker, Hayes also shows good skills in the pass block. He is able to keep his feet moving and not get stuck, with good vision to adapt quickly and recognize changes in the defenses and stop blitzes.

Despite his size, Hayes fares well against smaller defenders and has violent hand skills which can lead to devastating blocks on defenders. However, a slight is for someone of his size he doesn’t use his explosiveness to full effect and has clear athletic limitations which can lead to him being a little heavy-footed at times.

Hayes is at times a little grabby with his hands. As a team who suffered terribly from holding penalties in 2021, this is something the Carolina Panthers will want to avoid under new coach James Campen.

The four-star recruit from Maryland Heights Missouri might be someone the Panthers target late in Day 2 if they manage to recoup some picks. Hayes could also drop into Day 3, which would make this even more of a possibility.