Panthers: 3 trade targets from Chiefs due to Patrick Mahomes deal
By Dean Jones
Panthers trade target No. 2: Eric Fisher (OT)
One area where the Carolina Panthers could use some significant reinforcements is their offensive line. They are going into 2020 with a patchwork group. And this has the potential to cause complications to the incredible weapons at quarterback Teddy Bridgewater’s disposal.
Although he had his injury problems during their Super Bowl run, Eric Fisher is a stud left tackle when healthy and would be an instant upgrade over Russell Okung. The former No. 1 overall pick will be a free agent in 2022. And this is where things could get complicated for the Kansas City Chiefs in terms of Patrick Mahomes’ new deal.
Any potential trade inquiry from the Panthers for the offensive lineman would probably not come until next spring due to Okung’s presence. But his $13 million is coming off the books and it would be a huge surprise if the Pro Bowler’s stay in Carolina was not just a short-term arrangement.
Fisher came into the league with the highest of ceilings. And he has been an outstanding contributor for the Chiefs during this time. What the Panthers wouldn’t give for someone as reliable opposite Taylor Moton going forward. And if Kansas City is willing to take calls for the player, then the organization would be foolish not to at least explore the possibility.
It’s easy to forget that Fisher is only 29-years-old. Given the longevity of lineman across the league in recent years. This would also be a sound long-term investment over the next five or six years.