After missing out on Deshaun Watson, the Carolina Panthers’ options at quarterback have dwindled. Entering this year’s NFL Draft, they’ll consider their options and team needs as they look to make the best decision with the sixth overall pick.
Carolina Panthers’ team needs in the 2022 NFL Draft
While quarterback is clearly a massive need for the Panthers, there are several other holes to fill on the depth chart during draft weekend. Carolina has a middling (at best) roster, and head coach Matt Rhule is firmly on the hot seat.
This is a make-or-break year for the Panthers’ brain trust, and plugging important holes will be paramount as they enter a monumental training camp and regular season.
Quarterback
The Panthers swung and missed with former first-round pick Sam Darnold last season. It turns out that a mediocre New York Jets squad didn’t completely manifest Darnold’s struggles. Still, the Panthers are on the hook for his entire $18.8 million fifth-year option.
That said, Carolina can’t afford to be static at the position. They’ll eat Darnold’s salary while trying to improve at the position. Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett has a background with Rhule from their college days, and he could be the logical target at No. 6.
Wide Receiver
The Panthers locked up DJ Moore on a long-term deal earlier this offseason. They also have speedy veteran Robby Anderson on the outside. That said, beyond that duo, the wideout depth chart is rather thin. The Panthers need to improve the passing game, and the QB spot isn’t the only one that needs some tender loving care (TLC, for those unfamiliar).
Center
The Panthers were able to sign center Bradley Bozeman to a one-year deal in free agency. But the work can’t be done at the position, as the Panthers need a long-term answer. Adding another interior lineman to the mix would be wise, as Carolina also has a need at guard.
Tight End
While the Panthers just locked Ian Thomas up on a long-term deal, they shouldn’t just rest on him as a solution. The Panthers need to improve their passing game, and wideout and quarterback are just the baseline needs in that regard. Adding a dual-purpose tight end to the mix could help whoever is at QB thrive next season.
Offensive Tackle
Taylor Moton needs a long-term partner at offensive tackle. Carolina has done their best to identify a starting left tackle for years, but it’s now time to take another bite of the apple. The best way to improve a passing game — other than drafting a QB — is to protect your signal-caller up front. Adding a Day 1 prospect at the position would be a great move if the Panthers can ID their next franchise QB elsewhere.
Carolina Panthers’ draft picks
The Panthers own the following picks in the 2022 NFL Draft: 1-6, 4-137, 5-144, 5-149, 6-199, 7-242.