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The Carolina Panthers entered the 2022 NFL offseason with question marks across the roster. Specifically, the Panthers had questions at two of the most important positions in the NFL: quarterback and offensive tackle. With time still remaining to sign free agents and the draft around the corner, the Panthers still have avenues to fill up both spots in the roster. Carolina could also look to the trade market, which has been active this offseason. However, the Panthers decide to go about things, they must improve at the quarterback and left tackle spots. That said, here are two moves that Carolina must make to complete their roster in 2022.
2 Moves The Panthers Must Make
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2. Draft Charles Cross
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The Panthers lucked out. They could use a left tackle and this draft class just so happens to have three elite-level options. Evan Neal, Ikem Ekwonu and Charles Cross represent the three best tackles in the Draft class, Given that offensive-line needy teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Giants pick ahead of the Panthers, it's not likely that they'll get to select the likes of Neal or Ekwonu. However, Cross, who is one of the better pass protectors in the class, would instantly solidify the Panthers' line in terms of pass blocking. Right tackle Taylor Moton was the only dependable blocker on the line this past season- and Carolina can't afford to let that happen again. Per USA Today, Cross posted a 94.8 percent pass-block win rate on passing plays. It's a mark that has ranked him among the better offensive tackles who have been drafted since the 2015 season. In possibly drafting Cross, the Panthers would be adding a tackle who can start opposite of Moton from day one.
1. Trade for Baker Mayfield
The Cleveland Browns' trade for former Houston Texans star Deshaun Watson all but signaled the end of Baker Mayfield's career with the franchise. While there's still a scenario where Mayfield could return in 2022, it's highly unlikely at this point. With trade rumors swirling, many have speculated about the best possible fits for the former first overall pick. The Panthers badly need a quarterback- and while Mayfield hasn't established himself as an upper tier option, it's safe to say that he is more polished than incumbent Sam Darnold, who was taken with the third pick behind Mayfield. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport floated the possibility of a Mayfield trade to the Panthers, so long as Cleveland opted to pay some of the quarterback's salary to aid the cash-strapped Panthers. Mayfield, who is just two seasons removed from leading the Browns to their first playoff victory in over 20 years, would be an upgrade for a team that desperately needs stability at the position.
