2022 NFL mock draft: Texans pass on QB in QB-heavy predictions
2022 NFL mock draft: 10th pick
Pick Analysis. LB. Christian Harris. 10. Scouting Report. Alabama. player. 87
The Carolina Panthers have gone defense with each of their top picks in the first two seasons with Matt Rhule as the head coach.
Although Rhule is not the general manager, it’s clear that this team is trying to build a tough, smart, physical identity defensively.
Derrick Brown was the top selection for the Panthers in the 2020 NFL Draft and the Panthers spent their entire 2020 draft class on that side of the ball.
In 2021, Carolina went with Jaycee Horn, a local product out of South Carolina who brings size, speed, and attitude to the cornerback position.
Between Brown, Horn, and budding star Jeremy Chinn, there are some interesting pieces in place in Carolina. Why not add another?
Christian Harris is the next man up for the Alabama Crimson Tide at the linebacker position and has already proven, in two short seasons, that he can load up the stat sheet.
In 2020, Harris had 79 total tackles with 7.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and an interception.
He would add a presence to the middle of Carolina’s revamped defense on all three downs. Although there may be an opportunity here to further support Sam Darnold (should the Panthers stick with him for another year), continuing to build on what they started in 2019 makes sense given the value Harris presents.