Panthers’ projected defensive depth chart before the 2022 NFL draft
There seems to be only two options and an escape plan for the Carolina Panthers and their 2022 first-round pick. Many believe they can go with a quarterback, an offensive lineman or just trade out with the sixth overall pick come Thursday.
But could a fourth option, particularly on the other side of the ball, be a real possibility? Well, by the looks of their current projected depth chart, it definitely wouldn’t hurt . . .
Position | Starter | Depth | |||
DE | Marquis Haynes Sr. | Joe Jackson | |||
DT | |||||
DT | Bravvion Roy | ||||
DE | Darryl Johnson | Azur Kamara | |||
WLB | |||||
MLB | |||||
SLB | |||||
CB | CJ Henderson | Stantley Thomas-Oliver III | Chris Westry | ||
SS | Xavier Woods | Sam Franklin | |||
FS | Kenny Robinson | ||||
CB | Keith Taylor Jr. | Troy Pride Jr. |
We’ll get Carolina’s secondary out of the way first. To the credit of head coach Matt Rhule and general manager Scott Fitterer, the braintrust was able to turn the group from a barebones bunch to potent crop in a matter of two years.
The same, however, can’t be said for the middle of the defense. Even with the free-agent signings of veterans Cory Littleton and Damien Wilson (who might not be around too long anyway), Carolina is frighteningly thin and in desperate need of a playmaker at linebacker.
Defensive coordinator Phil Snow probably wouldn’t mind another pass rusher either. The loss of Haason Reddick, who led the team in sacks this past season, could prove costly if the committee headlined by Gross-Matos, Haynes and Luvu can’t get it done off the edge opposite Burns.
Related
Panthers bring in former Seahawks DL for visit
Where does Panthers' Scott Fitterer sit in GM power rankings?
List
Biggest takeaways from Panthers DC Phil Snow on Tuesday
