Depth chart projections for every Carolina Panthers 2022 draft pick

Cade Mays – Carolina Panthers OL

• Right Guard No. 3
• Center No. 3

This stage of the draft is finding players that can fill depth holes. Considering the complications suffered by many offensive linemen still with the Carolina Panthers in 2021, finding another solution in case their starters go down with injury was an avenue they had to pursue at some stage.

Cade Mays has the versatility Carolina seeks heavily in almost all their offensive line recruits. He has experience at every position on the interior, which will hopefully serve him well en route to a valuable backup role from the outset.

There doesn’t appear to be much pressure on Mays to push for a starting job immediately. The Panthers signed Bradley Bozeman and Austin Corbett in free agency as well as their decision to take Ikem Ekwonu at No. 6 overall – which might see Brady Christensen become the team’s permanent left guard.

Mays is a commanding force against the run and communicates well pre-snap. His pass-rushing technique needs refinement and footwork might also become an issue, but he is fortunate to have an experienced figure such as offensive line coach James Campen steering him in the right direction.