Panthers 7-round 2022 NFL mock draft: Dealing with devils
By Dean Jones
837. . TE. Cyclones . CHARLIE KOLAR. 137. player
Carolina Panthers select Charlie Kolar
- Tight End | Iowa State
Even though the Carolina Panthers have Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble, there is nothing preventing the organization from selecting a tight-end prospect to develop into a potential starter. Especially at this stage of the draft if other prominent needs are filled first.
There is no guarantee Thomas can turn his career around after getting a surprising three-year extension. Although the presence of new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo will help enormously.
Tremble is obviously the contingency plan. However, there are also some question marks about his pass-catching prowess with a heavy workload despite flashing at times during the 2021 campaign.
Someone like Charlie Kolar might be worth taking a shot at in this situation. The Iowa State product is a soft-handed player at the position with a big enough frame to make a substantial difference either across the middle or in the red zone.
This was reflected with 23 touchdowns over his college career. And there is absolutely no denying Kolar is one of the most reliable pass-catchers in this tight-end draft class.
His overall speed and pass blocking need some coaching up. But there is plenty to work with and no pressure to contribute immediately in Carolina if this becomes a reality.