What to expect from the Panthers final three draft picks in 2022

Kalon Barnes – Carolina Panthers CB/KR

The Carolina Panthers have had some success with their seventh-round selections since Matt Rhule became head coach. Stantley Thomas-Oliver III and Phil Hoskins both became members of the 53-man roster and in the defensive tackle’s case, he might have a bigger part to play after flashing real promise in 2021.

Carolina will be hoping things transpire in a similar fashion where Kalon Barnes is concerned. The defensive back is no stranger to Rhule from their time together in college at Baylor and the prospect gained national headlines for a blistering display of speed at the NFL Scouting Combine to further enhance his stock.

This wasn’t enough for Barnes to hear his name called a little earlier. However, his previous relationship with Rhule should serve him well considering the coach knows what he’s capable of better than most.

Barnes is a smooth mover that has quick feet to match his 4.26-second 40-yard dash time. He is perhaps best suited to a zone scheme, but speed alone will not make up for the player’s poor technique at times once he comes up against NFL wide receivers that will punish every mistake.

Again, this is a raw prospect with exceptional athletic traits. Something the Panthers bet on in a big way over the final two rounds.