5 emerging alphas on the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Matt Corral – Carolina Panthers QB
If the Carolina Panthers eventually decided not to bring in another quarterback before the 2022 season, then Matt Corral has a significant opportunity on his hands. The complications that could emerge from starting Sam Darnold are there for all to see, so if the No. 94 overall selection can progress encouragingly in a short space of time, those in power might give him a shot much sooner than expected.
Corral has made a solid start to early offseason workouts, although head coach Matt Rhule was eager to point out that the Ole Miss product has a lot of hard work ahead before the Panthers can contemplate throwing him in at the deep end.
Perhaps Corral is a long-term solution to an ongoing problem. But his presence as the No. 1 would provide arguably more hope than Carolina standing pat with Darnold after his distinct lack of production in 2021.
In truth, the Panthers would be wise to get Corral some playing time as a rookie. This would allow them to make further assessments before deciding whether or not to take another signal-caller from a much deeper 2023 draft class.
Corral looks like a great scheme fit for what Ben McAdoo is implementing. His ability to lead is another positive trait that could see him emerge as a potential alpha next season.