Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: Dealing with devils

Carolina Panthers select Charles Cross

• Offensive Tackle | Mississippi State

If the Carolina Panthers traded down to No. 8 overall and still managed to get Charles Cross, it would be nothing short of phenomenal. The team is in desperate need of a left tackle that can solidify the position long-term, which the Mississippi State product would provide in no uncertain terms.

Cross has been to Bank of America Stadium for a visit earlier this week, so the interest is rightfully there from Carolina’s point of view. Judging by how the blindside protector performed in college and how he’s impressed during the evaluation process, it’s not hard to see why.

There is plenty to like about Cross’ potential to make an instant impact at the next level. His pass protection is nothing short of exceptional, with outstanding footwork and technique making him an extremely difficult proposition to overcome.

Although there are some questioning Cross from a run blocking standpoint, there is plenty of evidence to suggest this shouldn’t be a problem. Late in the top-10 seems to be the lineman’s floor based on most projections, so Carolina would strongly consider taking the player in this situation.

Adding Cross to an offensive line that also consists of Austin Corbett, Taylor Moton, Bradley Bozeman, and Brady Christensen would revolutionize this critical area of play. Something the Panthers haven’t had for an age.