3 winners and 3 losers from the Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL Draft
By Jason Huber
Scott Fitterer – Carolina Panthers GM
In his second draft with the Carolina Panthers, general manager Scott Fitterer did a sensational job.
Entering the draft with the No. 6 pick and then no selections on Day 2, Fitterer managed to get a franchise left tackle and trade back into the third round to get a much-needed quarterback.
There was certainly some luck involved with Ikem Ekwonu falling to No. 6 and most of the quarterbacks sliding in the draft. But Fitterer was patient and didn’t make any unneeded chaotic moves.
In addition to those additions, Fitterer traded up again in the fourth round to draft Penn State linebacker Brandon Smith, who could end up being one of the steals this draft.
There were talks during the draft that the Panthers were trying to trade for Baker Mayfield and instead of that, which would’ve meant giving up future assets, Fitterer took a gamble with Matt Corral.
Mayfield would be an upgrade at the quarterback position. But if Corral doesn’t work out, Fitterer can try again next year in a much deeper draft class.
As uncertain as this draft was, it should be praised that Fitterer didn’t make any crazy moves and just stuck to the plan.