Panthers Draft 2022: OT secured in full 32-team first round mock draft
By Dean Jones
5. player. 31. . OT. New York Giants. EVAN NEAL
New York Giants select Evan Neal
- Offensive Tackle | Alabama
This is arguably the perfect scenario for the New York Giants with the top-three offensive tackles still on the board. The organization has freely admitted that it hasn’t done enough to help quarterback Daniel Jones since he was drafted, so selecting Evan Neal here is an absolute no-brainer.
Neal’s dominance at Alabama was extraordinary thanks to his elite size and mind-blowing athleticism. No pick is guaranteed to come off, but this is as close to a sure thing as you’re likely to find.
player. 87. . OT. Carolina Panthers. CHARLES CROSS. 6
Carolina Panthers select Charles Cross
- Offensive Tackle | Mississippi State
The Carolina Panthers have a number of options available that could help them progress in the short and long term. However, relying on a rookie quarterback is not something Matt Rhule is likely to bet his job on, and solidifying the blindside with Charles Cross is the smarter call to make.
Cross is an elite pass protector that can also make his presence felt on running downs. He is exactly what a premium left tackle in the NFL should look like and this should give the Panthers a stable edge presence they’ve sorely missed since the days of Jordan Gross.
. DE/OLB. New York Giants. JERMAINE JOHNSON. 7. player. 31
New York Giants select Jermaine Johnson
- Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | Florida State
The Giants got themselves a top offensive lineman with their first pick and use another to strengthen a pass-rushing unit that majorly underachieved last season.
Jermaine Johnson is the latest explosive Florida State product set to shine at the next level, following in the footsteps of Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns. His power and quickness have seen the player’s stock soar of late – traits that are always highly coveted in league circles.