Which way should the Carolina Panthers go with their 2022 NFL Draft selections with only a few days to go before the speculation comes to an end?
The Carolina Panthers are entering one of their most crucial NFL drafts in recent memory. With the No. 6 overall selection, the organization will be drafting either their cornerstone left tackle, their future of the franchise at quarterback, or a dominant pass-rusher to be grouped with Pro Bowler Brian Burns.
There is also the possibility of the Panthers trading back, which has been under consideration since the start of the offseason due to the organization only having one draft pick in the first 136 selections of the draft.
As draft day approaches, many pundits will be releasing both their final predictive mocks or their final big board to give fans an idea of who the best prospects are entering the league this year. Teams across the league, with their boards finalized, will also be doing their own mock drafts to prepare themselves for any scenario that could occur in the first round.
The Panthers are one of the most polarizing teams in the 2022 NFL Draft. There are so many possibilities as to what they may decide to do with the No. 6 overall selection.
For months, many believed that the team could draft Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett due to the connection between him, head coach Matt Rhule during his time as Temple’s head coach, and owner David Tepper’s connection with the university.
Using The Draft Network’s mock draft simulator, we give you the best guess as to what the Panthers may do this coming weekend in the NFL Draft.
Round No. 1 (Trade)
Carolina Panthers trade down from No. 6 overall
As previously mentioned, the Carolina Panthers have only one draft selection before they are expected to pick again at No. 137 overall in the fourth round thanks in large part to the Sam Darnold and C.J. Henderson deals made last season.
With plenty of talented players on the board, including quarterback, general manager Scott Fitterer lands a deal with Howie Roseman and the Philidelphia Eagles by moving back nine spots to acquire more draft capital.
A big gamble for a general manager that has had a history (and background) of trading back. But one that might pay off in a huge way.