6 potential first-round targets if the Panthers make 2022 playoffs
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could draft Tyree Wilson
- Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | Texas Tech
Finding a consistent pass-rushing presence opposite Brian Burns should be among the Carolina Panthers’ top priorities in 2023. Marquis Haynes continues to shine from a rotational role and even though Yetur Gross-Matos’ run defense is coming along nicely, there’s something missing when it comes to getting after the quarterback.
If the Panthers make the playoffs and all the top quarterbacks are gone, this might be the avenue they go down depending on which players come on board in free agency. Although he finished the season prematurely due to injury, Tyree Wilson is a prospect of interest and could provide immediate assistance to a talented defensive front.
Wilson already possesses an NFL-ready physique and has the production to match. His final two seasons at Texas Tech were nothing short of outstanding, with 14 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss that won’t go unnoticed by NFL scouts.
Not only does Wilson have all the natural instincts needed to be a pass-rushing threat, but the player also possesses enough strength and size to emerge as a force against the run. There needs to be more added to his repertoire upon arriving in the pros, but there is a tremendous amount to go off if the Panthers went in this direction.
Coupling Burns with Wilson would be a long-term tandem capable of wreaking havoc. Something that would also strengthen their rotation with Gross-Matos taking a step back.