2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jets Defense Rebuilt In 3-Round Projection

10. Carolina Panthers: Charles Cross, Offensive Tackle, Mississippi State

In the second year of the Matt Rhule era, the Carolina Panthers appear to have made progress and have looked competitive at times this year. After a hot start, Carolina has cooled off due to the regression of Sam Darnold. It seems once the Panthers get the quarterback right they will be a playoff team.

If they do not trade their first-round pick to acquire a quarterback they should spend the selection on a player to protect the quarterback. The biggest weakness on this roster is their offensive line, more specifically their left tackle situation. Carolina has swing offensive lineman Cam Erving as their starting left tackle. The Panthers drafted Brady Christensen in the third round to compete for the starting job and he did not win it. Carolina can not wait for Christensen to take over a position like left tackle. It is vital for a team trying to win immediately like the Panthers to have someone they trust protecting their quarterback’s blindside.

Carolina could elect to take Mississippi State tackle Charles Cross with their first-round pick. This season Cross has emerged as one of the best tackles in all of college football. Taking a tackle this early may not be the flashy pick many would expect this Panthers’ administration to make but this is the right pick for Carolina. If the Panthers land a pick as early as they are selecting in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft then they should take Cross to be Carolina’s quarterback’s new blindside protector.