7 inside linebackers the Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft
Carolina Panthers could select Leo Chenal (Wisconsin)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-3
- Weight: 250 pounds
2021 Stats:
- 115 tackles
- 18.5 tackles for loss
- 8 sacks
- 91.5 PFF grade
Leo Chenal had an incredible season in 2021. He produced a 91.5 grade from Pro Football Focus alongside his 18.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks, becoming a constant disruptor of the opposing team’s running games thanks to a stocky build perfect for the inside linebacker position.
The former Wisconsin Badger shined at the NFL Scouting Combine. Chenal showed off his strength through the bench press, his explosiveness through the vertical and broad jumps, and his speed through the 40-yard dash – resulting in the player’s draft stock shooting up to a potential second-round pick after his initial Day 3 projection.
Chenal showed off stout run-stopping ability throughout his career in Madison. His speed coming downhill and in pursuit of the ball carrier is impressive and his instincts in both coverage and run defense are great.
The prospect does have sluggish feet in space, holding him back from being a superstar linebacker in the NFL, but Chenal’s football IQ and range once he gets up to his top seed are good enough to make up for his slow feet. He will become a good starting option within a year or two of being drafted.
If Scott Fitterer trades back and acquires capital in the second and third rounds, then selecting Chenal makes a lot of sense. He would be a solid depth piece for the Carolina Panthers and perhaps more depending on what happens with Damien Wilson.