7 inside linebackers the Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft
Carolina Panthers could select Malcolm Rodriguez (Oklahoma State)
Measurements:
- Height: 5-foot-11
- Weight: 232 pounds
2021 Stats:
- 129 tackles
- 16 tackles for loss
- 3 sacks
- 1 interception
- 85.7 PFF grade
The aggressive and hard-nosed Malcolm Rodriguez would provide another physical linebacker next to Shaq Thompson over the next few years. He showed off a lot of production during his fifth year at Oklahoma State, helping lead the Cowboys to a great season that ended with a Fiesta Bowl victory.
He had such a good season, Pro Football Focus ranked him the 78th best player in college football.
Rodriguez flashes a lot of speed and aggression coming downhill against the run. Often this is a positive of his game, but sometimes it will be used against him on misdirection plays and cutbacks.
Another negative the prospect has is a lack of agility in coverage. Even though Rodriguez’s top speed is high, he will struggle when isolated one on one and when in space.
Despite this, he is still a good run-stopper and will provide rotational value to any NFL team that selects him.
Rodriguez has some upside as a solid starting linebacker who primarily provides run defense. The Carolina Panthers could use a Day 3 pick on him, but others might have more potential to contribute right away.
If Carolina values the surefire value Rodriguez would bring as a backup, he is a good selection. But if Scott Fitterer and Matt Rhule want a player with more upside, they are better served to select another prospect in this area of the draft.