What Rob Gronkowski trade means for the Carolina Panthers
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers’ chances of mounting a surprise NFC South championship challenge just got more difficult after Rob Gronkowski was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The arrival of prolific tight end Rob Gronkowski could have huge implications for the Carolina Panthers’ chances in 2020.
The former New England Patriot is returning to the NFL after one-year of retirement and has opted to join Tom Brady at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The two sides worked out a trade that sends Gronkowski and a seventh-round pick to the Bucs’ in exchange for a fourth-round selection.
This sent shockwaves through the NFL on Tuesday and only increased expectations in Tampa. The trade could also have a lasting impact on the NFC South title race if the tight end performs to the standard he is capable of.
That is a big if. Gronkowski has been away from the game for a season and was often injured during his time in the league. One thing’s for sure, if the player comes back to anything like his best then it could be the missing piece of the puzzle for the Buccaneers’ offense.
They still need an established running back and more protection on the offensive line. But the allure of Brady is also reaping its own rewards and can give their fanbase plenty of cause for encouragement.
If the Panthers were going to find it tough going in divisional matchups before this trade, then their plight has only worsened because of it. The defensive side of the ball needs significant upgrades and if they do not get their early Draft picks right this week then it could be a long season for the franchise.