Carolina Panthers 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: A new era dawns

Carolina Panthers select Cameron Latu

• Tight End | Alabama Crimson Tide

If you have read a mock draft I’ve written from this past season, you know that I believe depth is very critical for a team’s success. Especially when it comes to continuity over the course of a season.

The Carolina Panthers have struggled with production from the tight end position ever since Greg Olsen left town three years ago. This is a trend that cannot continue under Frank Reich.

Ian Thomas was given a three-year extension, which flopped massively. It is unclear what’s next for the position, the Indiana product’s future, and the commitment to Tommy Tremble going forward.

Adding another tight end to the roster via the 2023 NFL Draft or free agency should be a priority. In this mock draft, the front office goes with a potential shiner in the fourth round with the selection of Cameron Latu, a productive two-year starter for one of the best college programs in the country, Alabama.

Latu isn’t an elite athlete by any means. Though, the redshirt senior is reliable when it comes to versatility and football smarts.

He knows how to find holes in zone coverage with relative ease. Latu is also a good security blanket in the middle of the field for his quarterback.

While Latu may not start right away, he could work his way into a lineup and provide depth as he continues to ascend as a player.