How Matthew Stafford situation could impact Panthers draft plans
By Dean Jones
Why the Carolina Panthers need to act
The Carolina Panthers have clearly made their mind up to be aggressive in pursuit of a quarterback who can take them to the next step. So they must have the courage of their convictions when moves are being made across the league.
Getting left behind is not an option.
And it would set their rebuild back considerably.
Teddy Bridgewater’s contract makes it almost guaranteed he’ll be on the roster in 2021 if the Panthers cannot shift the signal-caller in any potential trade package. Drafting a development prospect is a bit of a crapshoot which doesn’t guarantee success, and the last thing Carolina needs is yet more uncertainty at the position thanks to offseason decisions that didn’t play out as expected.
Hindsight is a wonderful thing to have in the NFL. Giving Bridgewater a three-year deal when he hadn’t started prominently since 2015 was a massive gamble that seems to have blown up in their face.
Another fatal error such as this is going to come with severe complications.
Matthew Stafford is a name worth considering and would be an upgrade. But whether the Panthers wish to give up what the Lions want in return for two or three years of solid production is another matter entirely.
This is an ever-changing situation that will only be triggered when the first domino falls. It’s therefore vital for the Panthers to remain calm and act decisively whichever direction they eventually decide to go.