Carolina Panthers: 4 missed opportunities this offseason

Carolina Panthers No. 4: Not trading Curtis Samuel

The Carolina Panthers have given themselves a real dilemma with Curtis Samuel. The wide receiver made an eye-catching contribution in 2019. But he is heading into the final year of his deal with plenty still to prove.

There is little doubting the skills that Samuel brings to the table. He is a dynamic offensive weapon with the ball in his hands. And he has that rare blend of elusiveness, elite speed, and playmaking ability.

Carolina fielded calls regarding Samuel’s availability during the 2020 NFL Draft. But despite some considerable interest, they decided to keep their No. 3 wideout on the roster.

This has backed the organization into a corner regarding the player’s future. If the former Ohio State star takes another leap forward as expected in 2020. Then Samuel is going to be in a strong position heading to the bargaining table next spring.

Samuel will hold all the cards by this point. It appears unlikely that the Panthers would use the franchise tag on him with the finances involved. And the player himself might decide to take his chances elsewhere in pursuit of a more substantial role.

Not trading Samuel was their last possible opportunity to get some valuable draft capital in return. And they are now running a real risk of losing him for nothing next spring.