Carolina Panthers: 3 trade targets from the Baltimore Ravens

Carolina Panthers trade target: Patrick Mekari (OL)

Patrick Mekari has everything new head coach Matt Rhule has looked for in an incoming recruit during his time at the helm. The offensive lineman is versatile and athletic, which could mean he is able to contribute in a variety of different ways.

The player can operate at either center or guard. These are two areas of the field that have more questions than answers where the Carolina Panthers are concerned in 2020.

It’s easy to forget that Mekari is just 22-years-old and entering his third year in the NFL. The Ravens got a real diamond in the rough when they snapped up the undrafted free agent. And he didn’t give up a single sack last season from 431 snaps on his way to an impressive 70.5 grading from Pro Football Focus.

The Panthers do have a veteran at center in Matt Paradis. But he is entering a make-or-break campaign after going through considerable struggles in 2019. And the decision-makers will need to come up with a contingency plan if the veteran falls below the expected mark once again.

Mekari’s chances of starting for the Ravens this season don’t look very promising. But the organization has high hopes for him going forward. This would likely drive up the price somewhat if the Panthers opted to go down this particular route. But the former California standout comes with enormous promise.