Carolina Panthers 2022 Mock Draft: Multiple Trades To Acquire Picks

Round 6, 196th Overall: Nick Zakelj, OT, Fordham

The offensive line barrage continues in this Carolina Panthers mock draft. Two day two picks shouldn’t result in complacency here, especially in the lottery that is the draft. Having depth and developing a strong unit should be a focus this offseason and throughout training camp next summer.

Nick Zakelj is an intriguing prospect, as not many players from Fordham are highlighted ahead of the draft anymore. Zakelj will also be down in Mobile soon, joining a fun group of small school offensive linemen. While Zakelj played plenty of tackle at Fordham, there’s a good bet he gets work at tackle and guard down there, and is absolutely worth it this late.

Round 7, 246th Overall: Troy Andersen, LB, Montana State

As was mentioned before, the linebacker room is ridiculously thin in Carolina right now, so don’t be surprised with the double down here (free agency will likely sort this out but for now, we’re sticking with this).

Troy Andersen is a former running back from Montana State, and has been a versatile piece on their defense. He’s played as an end man on the line of scrimmage while also getting his majority of snaps in the box as a traditional linebacker. Andersen plays with good instincts, has the length to become a strong block deconstructor, and his motor runs hot all game. He could thrive on special teams while he continues to develop.