4 hidden benefits to the Panthers landing Deshaun Watson
By Dean Jones
Veteran allure
One only has to look at Tom Brady with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season to see how veteran players are drawn to teams with proven quarterbacks under center. This played a leading role in the Bucs’ putting together an all-star roster that is now gearing up for a Super Bowl appearance. So if Deshaun Watson did end up on the Carolina Panthers, it would make them a more attractive destination in no uncertain terms.
Not only that, but it also could see some veterans take a little less in the way of money to play with Watson.
A welcome situation given the salary-cap predicament most teams across the league finds themselves in due to COVID-19 revenue losses that are estimated to be anywhere between $3 billion and $4 billion, according to Sportscorp co-owner Marc Ganis.
Providing the Panthers don’t have to give up much in the way of personnel, they don’t appear that far away from being a contender. They do have some serious questions to answer regarding their offensive line – which would be priority No. 1 if Watson joined the ranks – and their defense is a couple more pieces away from being a top unit.
Watson would improve their chances if he continues to show the sort of form he’s demonstrated since entering the league as the No. 12 overall selection out of Clemson. But his presence on the roster might also convince veterans who could instantly help to come on board and help the team return to the big time.