3 draft prospects generating late buzz for the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could draft Trevor Penning
- Offensive Tackle | Northern Iowa
It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers could look to finally find a long-term solution at left tackle during the draft. In an ideal world, one of the consensus top-three prospects will fall out of the top-five and into their laps, but much will depend on whether there is an early run on edge rushers and just what the New York Jets plan to do at No. 4 overall.
If all three end up going early, this would be a body blow to the Panthers. One that could see them look at alternative options via a potential trade down or even by reaching for someone else in the position they are currently situated.
According to Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network, the Panthers reportedly “love” Trevor Penning, the athletic Northern Iowa product that drew national attention for the way he approached individual drills at the 2022 Senior Bowl.
Wilson suggested that Carolina could look at targeting Penning with a trade down if Ikem Ekwonu, Charles Cross, and Evan Neal are off the board. But they are unlikely to be alone once the premier tier of blindside protectors comes off the board.
"“Where will Penning ultimately be selected in the 2022 NFL Draft? The Ravens (who draft 14th overall), the Carolina Panthers (in a trade-back scenario moving back from their current No. 6 overall selection), the Titans, and even the Kansas City Chiefs (should they trade up) were all referenced as potential destinations for Penning, according to sources.”"
Penning’s athleticism is off the charts. However, his hand placement and high stance need some significant work if the prospect wants to become a valuable contributor at the next level.