5 calls the Panthers should make first when free agency opens

Carolina Panthers call the Houston Texans

Calling the Houston Texans to see if their stance has changed regarding Deshaun Watson should be the first thing to do. Whether they’ll be receptive or not is another matter entirely, but imagine how much easier it would be to land veteran free agents if the quarterback was on the roster.

This has been a pipe dream, in all honesty. The Texans are willing to dig in their heels and wait for Watson to make the first move in terms of leeway. But with no first or second-round picks to call upon this season, things might start progressing to an eventual departure for the former Clemson standout the closer we get to the 2021 NFL Draft.

It’s going to take multiple first-rounders.

But so what?

Landing a player with Watson’s capability has the potential to instantly turn the Carolina Panthers from a relative afterthought to a legitimate postseason contender providing they don’t have to give up much of their current roster.

And what an incredible selling point it would be for general manager Scott Fitterer and head coach Matt Rhule when they speak to free agents.

Houston has not been taking calls for Watson in the hope of some patching up of this fractious relationship can one day happen. The Panthers might get the same treatment again, but this would be a good place to start.