7 inside linebackers the Panthers could select in the 2022 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers could select Troy Andersen (Montana State)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-4
• Weight: 243 pounds

2021 Stats (15 games):

• 147 tackles
• 14 tackles for loss
• 2 sacks
• 2 interceptions
• 86.1 PFF grade

Troy Andersen is the most intriguing and versatile linebacker prospect in this year’s draft. He won track titles in high school and played as a running back and a quarterback during his tenure at Montana State before playing one campaign on defense.

He shined at the NFL Scouting Combine, raising his stock from Day 3 into Day 2. Andersen’s speed and aggressiveness coming downhill will be strong against the run, although lacks some ability in one-on-one coverage.

His agility and length will be difficult for passing offenses to handle. But Andersen’s weakness is the lack of coaching and plays he received at the linebacker position throughout his football career.

The prospect has all the athletic tools to become an All-Pro linebacker if he gets a couple of years to develop his skills as a rotational player. If Andersen gains more reps and responds well to professional coaching, he would also learn how to read the game, making him react to plays much quicker than he did in college.

Andersen’s incredibly high ceiling and his current draft stock make him a great candidate in the third round for the Carolina Panthers if they acquire more capital. Additionally, the value he would give right away in the rotation as a run-stopping linebacker and on special teams is high.

With the proper coaching and development in the NFL, Andersen will turn into a hugely productive individual. He is the best selection Scott Fitterer and the Panthers can make this year if they choose to draft someone at the position.