The Carolina Panthers may be just desperate enough to push through on a trade for Deshaun Watson according to a new report.
The Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson quarterback sagas have reached a resolution. Could Deshaun Watson find a new home soon as well?
There are still a bunch of quarterback-needy teams out there who could make a run at Watson in the near future.
One such team could be especially motivated to make a deal happen: The Carolina Panthers.
Deshaun Watson rumors: Panthers have Texans QB on top of wishlist
“Acquiring superstar Deshaun Watson is No. 1 on the Panthers’ wishlist, per a source,” Jordan Schultz tweeted. “As we know, Deshaun has a no-trade clause — but the staff is under immense pressure from owner David Tepper after consecutive five-win seasons. Watson would represent immediate improvement.”
There’s little doubt Watson would improve Carolina at quarterback, though his long layoff from playing should be a concern. He’s more certain than any of the quarterbacks the team could get in the upcoming NFL Draft.
The two biggest issues with the pursuit of Watson have to do with his legal situation and his interest.
A grand jury is scheduled to hear evidence at the end of this week as the state decides whether or not to seek criminal charges. Their decision will impact Watson’s availability.
The second element is whether Watson is even interested in coming to Carolina.
In a recent radio appearance, Jonathan Alexander of the Charlotte Observer weighed in on the rumors that Watson wouldn’t waive his no-trade clause to join the Panthers.
“The Panthers, those in the organization, haven’t heard whether Deshaun Watson prefers Carolina or not. They haven’t gotten that far in the discussions.”
For now, Carolina is in wait-and-see mode. The heat will really be on if or when Watson’s status becomes more clear as it pertains to criminal charges and the 22 civil cases filed against him.
The Texans have indicated all along they expect a massive haul to be convinced to trade Watson. Just how desperate are the Panthers? We’ll see.