Panthers 7-round 2022 mock draft decided by computer simulation

Carolina Panthers select Matt Henningsen

• Defensive Tackle | Wisconsin

DaQuan Jones’ departure in free agency has been filled in the short term by Matt Ioannidis, who worked with Matt Rhule previously during their time together at Temple and providing he stays free of injury, should be able to come in and make an immediate contribution.

Hopes also remain high that Phil Hoskins and Daviyon Nixon can progress their respective skillsets in Year 2 of their professional careers. But that shouldn’t stop the Carolina Panthers from perhaps finding another defensive tackle prospect from the college ranks to further boost options.

Matt Henningsen is a player that could potentially become an NFL starter over time. He is a strong presence against the run and holds his position well coming off the block, which is matched by exceptional effort on almost every down.

As is the case with most prospects at this stage of the draft, Henningsen does have some flaws.

The Wisconsin product has average athleticism that makes it difficult to see how he’ll be able to impact matters in pass-rushing situations. There are also some things to work on from a technical standpoint once he arrives in the NFL.

Henningsen wouldn’t be tasked with a great deal of responsibility right out of the gate in this scenario. So perhaps he could occupy the role Hoskins had last season as the team’s development project at defensive tackle.