Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: Dealing with devils
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers select Josh Paschal
- Defensive End | Kentucky
Another trade sees the Carolina Panthers do a deal with the New England Patriots that gets them a third-round pick, which might be worth considering if the team does end up moving out of the No. 6 spot. This gives general manager Scott Fitterer even more options and something that he proved highly capable of in 2021 with some outstanding draft movement up and down the board.
With Haason Reddick allowed to test the free-agent market and sign for the Philadelphia Eagles, it leaves the Panthers short of legitimate pass-rushing options opposite Brian Burns. Expectations have risen for Yetur Gross-Matos and Marquis Haynes, but another exciting option from the college ranks should be sought at some stage.
Josh Paschal is someone who has risen up draft boards after some encouraging progression during his final season at Kentucky. His size, physique, and explosiveness look tailormade for life in the NFL and there is a high chance he can get even better with professional coaching.
Although Paschal lacks truly elite speed, he more than makes up for this by using leverage to his advantage and could prove a useful rotational piece during his rookie season while gaining experience.
Paschal also seems like a good fit in Phil Snow’s system. So this option does make a ton of sense providing Carolina can get their hands on some Day 2 capital.