3 trade packages for the Carolina Panthers to land J.J. Watt

Carolina Panthers trade package No. 1

Given the player’s age and recent injury problems over the last few years, the cost to acquire J.J. Watt might not be that steep. He has given the Houston Texans everything throughout his career, so the least he’d expect in return is an easy avenue out of the organization in a bid to end his time in the league on a high.

Watt has earned this right, at the very least.

The Texans should be accommodating, of that, there is little doubt. But the organization will still want some valuable draft capital in return as they enter a critical rebuilding period.

Perhaps a second-round pick this year and a mid-round selection in 2022 might tempt the Texans into a deal. This is something that the Carolina Panthers could accommodate if they identify Watt as someone that can help an improving defense take that next step and become a dominant unit in 2021.

There is the small matter of Watt’s $17.5 million in base salary to consider, which might put the Panthers off with financial resources at a premium due to COVID-19 revenue losses.

An extension might be worked out with the edge rusher on the final year of his deal to get this figure down. But in terms of the compensation needed, a couple of draft picks might do it.