One bold prediction for every Carolina Panthers draft pick in 2022

Ikem Ekwonu – Carolina Panthers OT

• Pro Bowl selection in 2022

Fortune favored the Carolina Panthers in Round No. 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft when those in the top five all went with defensive prospects. This left the organization free to pick any of the premier offensive tackles and as it turned out, the best prospect on their draft board.

Ikem Ekwonu instantly provides the Panthers with something that haven’t had for some time. A difference-maker on the blindside that can set the tone with ruthless efficiency.

The things Ekwonu can do run blocking are nothing short of phenomenal. If some slight adjustments can be made in pass protection, then this is a 10-year starter with Pro Bowl or better capabilities.

There will be no bedding-in period for Ekwonu, who will be tasked with starting at left tackle from Day 1 and providing a substantial upgrade on anything Carolina’s put at the spot since Jordan Gross retired. This is a lot of pressure, but something the North Carolina State product is more than ready for.

If everything goes as expected for Ekwonu, he will take the league by storm. There is bound to be a hiccup or two along the way, but his first-year experiences against some of the NFL’s best pass-rushers will stand him in tremendous stead as his career progresses.

Earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie could be far exceeding expectations for Ekwonu. But it cannot be ruled out if everything goes the player’s way.