30 college prospects the Carolina Panthers should watch closely in 2022
By Dean Jones
. QB. Buckeyes . C.J. STROUD. 2. player. 812
Carolina Panthers should monitor C.J. Stroud
- Quarterback | Ohio State
As it stands right now, the Carolina Panthers have just one quarterback under contract in 2023. And given Matt Corral is out for the entire season with a foot injury, the coaching staff won’t have the first idea about whether or not he can fill the starting job long-term.
Baker Mayfield could also play well enough for an extension or the franchise tag. But this is an outstanding 2023 class and C.J. Stroud might be the best of the bunch.
Ohio State hasn’t been known for producing quarterbacks that can transition to the pros. However, with sound decision-making, a huge pocket presence, and game-changing arm strength, Stroud is sure to be a hot commodity.
3. player. 814. . DT. Bulldogs . JALEN CARTER
Carolina Panthers should monitor Jalen Carter
- Defensive Tackle | Georgia
Adding to the defensive tackle spot might be a priority for the Panthers depending on how their young guys’ progress in 2022. Just how big of a need this becomes is also dependent on the growth of former first-round selection Derrick Brown in Year 3 of his professional career.
Jalen Carter looks like the latest in a long line of Georgia Bulldogs set to take the NFL by storm. He is a brute force on the interior, clogging up space with supreme strength against the run and also causing havoc in opposing backfields at will.
Carter will be one of the focal points following a series of departures on defense for the national champions. A responsibility that could take his game to new heights next season.
LB. Ducks . NOAH SEWELL. 4. player. 820.
Carolina Panthers should monitor Noah Sewell
- Linebacker | Oregon
Finding a long-term solution at the middle linebacker spot remains a complication. Although there is hope rookie Brandon Smith can provide the answer after the Penn State product flashed during the offseason.
If the Panthers still need an additional body to provide stability, then Noah Sewell should be among those scouted heavily in 2022. The brother of Detroit Lions offensive lineman Penei Sewell is an athletic force that represents a sideline-to-sideline presence capable of making game-changing plays at the drop of a hat.
Sewell looks like a lock for the first-round barring any drastic regression next season. His communication and leadership are two traits that also set the player apart from most entering the NFL next year.