30 college prospects the Carolina Panthers should watch closely in 2022

Carolina Panthers should monitor Zion Nelson

• Offensive Tackle | Miami

The Carolina Panthers have hopefully found their bookend tackle tandem in Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton. There will be some growing pains from the No. 6 overall selection next season, but the physical attributes are evident in the hope he can become the team’s franchise blindside protector long-term.

Depth behind the starting duo will take a hit next spring with Cam Erving out of contract. Someone like Zion Nelson is worth monitoring thanks to a unique blend of power, agility, and footwork.

Nelson has some flaws -most notably in run blocking and balance. But his pass protection looks the part and he can do his chances of a top-50 pick the world of good with the Miami Hurricanes in 2022.

Carolina Panthers should monitor Isaiah Foskey

• Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | Notre Dame

As stated previously, there are a large number of pass-rushers at the college level that could make a huge impact right out of the gate in the pros. Carolina could use this to their advantage, but whether other areas take priority remains to be seen.

If edge rusher is priority No. 1, then keeping tabs on Isaiah Foskey would be wise. The Notre Dame standout has everything one looks for in a productive NFL defensive end, with his ability to stand up and rush from an outside linebacker position something else that could help his cause.

The Fighting Irish could be a dark horse next season. But they’ll need Foskey to build on his 10-sack, 9.5 tackles for loss season in 2021.

Carolina Panthers should monitor Will Levis

• Quarterback | Kentucky

One of the more intriguing quarterback prospects set to declare for the 2023 NFL Draft is Will Levis. While there are some serious concerns about decision-making and touch, his intangibles as a pocket passer are absolutely off the charts.

Levis has arguably the best arm in this class. There is an effortless to his throws that catches the eye, but he’ll need to prove capable of ironing out some kinks next season to warrant first-round consideration with franchise potential.

Carolina might be on the lookout for another option under center. Especially if a new coaching regime comes into the fold following another dismal campaign from Matt Rhule.