2022 NFL mock draft: Panthers pick another cornerback in top 10

In theory, the Panthers should improve on their record from 2020 this year. They have a young and promising defense that’s trending in the right direction. There’s also a few new pass-catchers around that should help improve the team’s red-zone issues. It’s probably too early in this rebuild to talk about the playoffs realistically, but if Sam Darnold takes that next step they should at least be competitive with most teams from week to week.

You know what they say about the best-laid plans, though. Injuries to key players could be a major factor in 2021, as they have been the last three seasons. The offensive line could be a disaster. Darnold could continue to be exactly what he looked like for three years with the Jets: a marginal starting quarterback even on his best days. Point being, if things don’t go right in a few critical elements, Carolina fans may be have to prepare for another losing season – perhaps even another top-10 pick in next year’s draft.

If that’s the case, going back to the cornerback well might not be a terrible idea. In a new too-early 2022 mock draft at Bleacher Report, the Panthers select LSU corner Derek Stingley Jr. at No. 6 overall.

“Thanks to a pair of quarterbacks coming off the board early, the Panthers have an opportunity to select an elite talent at a premium position. It just so happens the prospect in question plays the same position as Horn. . . LSU’s Derek Stingley Jr. is absolutely worth the investment. He’s been one of the best players in college football since the first time he stepped onto a field. As Pro Football Focus’ Anthony Treash noted, Stingley posted the highest coverage grade by a true freshman cornerback since the site started evaluating prospects.”

On paper, Stingley (6-foot-1, 195 pounds) appears to be the kind of corner this Matt Rhule/Scott Fitterer regime wants. On film, he looks like another accomplished cover defender.

Stingley vs. Vanderbilt

Stingley vs. Florida

Stingley vs. Auburn

Taking another corner in the first round may seem like a luxury, but this is how units become lasting strengths for organizations that know how to build a team from the ground up. Continued investments at cornerback are the only way it’s going to become a powerhouse position on this roster.