Panthers full 7-round 2023 mock draft if Baker Mayfield earns new deal
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers select Arik Gilbert
- Wide Receiver/Tight End | Georgia
After striking another trade – this time with the New England Patriots – the Carolina Panthers secure one of the more intriguing prospects entering the NFL this year. Arik Gilbert has all the physical attributes needed to become a star at the next level and will finally take the field for Georgia after missing their national title win due to personal reasons.
Gilbert is also converting from a tight end to a wide receiver in readiness for the new campaign. His supreme size and wide catch radius are sure to make him a matchup nightmare and if the player comes back with a bang, then his draft stock will soar as a result.
One suspects Gilbert might be better suited to the tight end position once he gets to the pros. But the Panthers might need help at both areas depending on what transpires in 2022.
A notable feature of Gilbert’s game is how easily he seems to get open. He is also a natural pass-catcher that can stretch the field when opportunities arise.
Not only this, but Gilbert can also put his physical presence to good use in red-zone situations. And that’s without highlighting his exceptional ability as a blocker to further heighten his chances.
If Gilbert can put a consistent run of games together and the numbers needed, this will be all the Panthers or someone else needs to pull the trigger.