Matt Corral reveals his emotions as he slid in the 2022 NFL Draft

Former Ole Miss quarterback Matt Corral shared his emotions as he was kept waiting for his name to be called during the 2022 NFL Draft. Corral was projected as one of the highest-ranked quarterbacks of the draft, but didn’t get selected until the third round with the 86th overall pick by the Carolina Panthers. Corral ended up being the fourth quarterback taken in the draft, but significantly later in the draft than projections originally had him slotted.

Matt Corral on late selection in draft

Corral spoke with media in Las Vegas during a press appearance after he was selected by the Panthers, and fielded questions about what it was like being present for the draft. Corral was asked if it surprised him to watch himself and every quarterback other than Kenny Pickett slide during the draft into the third round.

“You know, it is definitely an emotional roller coaster for sure,” admitted Corral. “But you just gotta control what you control. And I felt like I put my best foot forward and you just gotta let go and let God take control.”

Corral was then asked about joining Carolina — a team that he could potentially earn a starting job with — and why he felt he was worth the Panthers’ pick. Carolina originally was not going to have another draft pick until the third day of the draft, but they moved up into the later part of the third round to select Corral before he was taken by another team. The former Rebels’ quarterback had no shortage of self-confidence in selling himself to the fans who may have that question.

“Truthfully, it’s really my leadership and just the way I carry myself,” said Corral. “And I feel like it’s very contagious throughout the locker room. I have great confidence in my ability as playing quarterback and as far as leadership goes — that’s something that I hold dear to my heart. And it’s something that radiates off me.”