4 reasons why the Panthers could secure unlikely playoff spot in 2022
By Dean Jones
![(Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports) Christian McCaffrey (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports) Christian McCaffrey](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fcatcrave-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fimagn-images-2F2017-2F07-2F18885613-850x560-7c0592ec20758d2a4451f7aea74d41d653c167ec6ac40e8b6809fe32a77e2c30.jpg)
Carolina Panthers could have a prolific OL
After yet another year of dismal offensive line play, the Carolina Panthers rightfully went about revamping this unit as a matter of extreme urgency. More importantly, there was a much more methodical approach to recruitment, which was a far cry from panicking with signings such as Cam Erving and Pat Elflein within hours of the legal tampering period commencing in 2021.
Aside from Taylor Moton’s exceptional consistency, one could have made a strong case for the Panthers needing four new starters. Something they actually managed to accomplish thanks to some sterling work from those in positions of power.
There was some luck involved. Something that saw a gift from the NFL Draft gods when Ikem Ekwonu fell out of the top five and into their grasp.
Ekwonu will start at the left tackle spot right out of the gate. There will be some teething problems, but his upside alone means this could be the answer to Carolina’s prayers on the blindside.
Austin Corbett’s presence at the right guard position should provide the Panthers with consistency next to Moton. Brady Christensen is likely to line up at left guard after an impressive camp and although he’s dealing with an injury, Bradley Bozeman has the scope to become a prolific center if he comes back ready to hit the ground running.
James Campen will coach them up effectively. So there is a lot to like about this unit making real strides.