It hasn't quite gone to plan since hiring Matt Rhule, but the Carolina Panthers are still in decent shape to improve next season. The defense is plentiful of talented players while the offense has the potential to be great. They need to make a splash in the offseason, which is why we go over three bold Panthers predictions for the 2022 NFL Draft.

Carolina struggled in the trenches last season so it'd be wise for the front office to focus in that area throughout the NFL Draft. Additionally, the Panthers could use some help in the receiving room. If the front office can improve these two areas, we should see some improvements made by this team.

However, all eyes are on the quarterback position. With the sixth pick in the draft, we could see the Panthers pull the trigger on a rookie quarterback. Even so, the front office might have a trick up their sleeve in the first round.

With that said, here are our three bold Panthers predictions for the 2022 NFL Draft.

Panthers Predictions for the 2022 NFL Draft

3. The front office focuses on the trenches throughout most of the draft

Carolina's struggles up front didn't help their already weak quarterback situation. The Panthers have an opportunity to reel in some serious talent within the offensive line, which would be a fantastic long-term maneuver. Luckily for them, this draft class is loaded with solid offensive line prospects.

If they wanted to, the Panthers could likely wait until rounds two or three to grab a good prospect offensive lineman. There are other areas of concern on this roster and we should see the front office focus on those spots early on in the NFL Draft. Regardless, don't be shocked if Carolina selects an offensive lineman on day two of the draft.

2. Panthers reel in a talented wide receiver

DJ Moore is one of the best young receivers in the league. Meanwhile, Robby Anderson is a proven deep threat. Carolina could use another weapon in the passing game, which is why they should consider taking a receiver in the NFL Draft. Depending on how the board plays out, the Panthers could select a legitimate pass option within the first two rounds.

*Watch NFL games LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*

We won't know who will be available in round two until the draft is officially underway. However, a few names that stand out are George Pickens and Skyy Moore. Each of them would be tremendous in the slot for the Panthers and immediately improve the offense.

1. Carolina trades back the 6th overall pick and still acquires a decent quarterback

Some believe the Panthers are going to take a quarterback sixth overall. Even though they need help at this position, Carolina should look to trade back instead. The goal should be to gain as much draft capital as possible while also improving the quarterback position.

The front office can either select a quarterback or, acquire a veteran through the trade. Both Jimmy Garoppolo and Baker Mayfield are likely to be traded and the Panthers could receive a haul of picks along with both of those players. With a handful of teams potentially looking to move up in the 2022 NFL Draft, don't be shocked if Carolina trades back to capitalize on gaining assets.