Panthers 7-round 2023 mock draft: What would Carolina do from No. 7?

Carolina Panthers select Felix Anudike-Uzomah

• Defensive End | Kansas State

Finding a prominent edge rusher capable of wreaking havoc opposite Brian Burns looks to be a top need for the Carolina Panthers in 2023 unless Yetur Gross-Matos raises his performance levels over the remaining 14 games. Those in power placed a great deal of faith in the Penn State product this offseason after Haason Reddick left in free agency, but he’s failed to generate the pressure needed as yet.

If this doesn’t improve, then the Panthers could identify someone from the college ranks to assist. Although Felix Anudike-Uzomah is a little raw, the physical attributes are absolutely off the charts and the defensive end is already drawing significant interest from analysts and scouts across the country.

Anudike-Uzomah might need some work from a technical standpoint, but the Kansas State product has size, physicality, and strength that cannot be taught. His footwork and straight-line speed defy a man his size, which always go down well when the assessment period begins.

With 2.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, and 13 tackles through four games in 2022, it’s not hard to see why Anudike-Uzomah is generating interest. Carolina has also been known to roll the dice on athletic traits in the hope they can develop since Scott Fitterer took over as general manager.

This represents a gamble. But one that could pay off in the biggest way imaginable.