4 big trades the Carolina Panthers could still make this offseason
By Dean Jones
Which big trades could still be on the Carolina Panthers’ radar this offseason as the team looks to get back into postseason contention in 2021?
It’s been a quiet but successful opening to free agency for the Carolina Panthers, who’ve managed to get some nice additions to the roster in problem areas that should stand them in good stead next season. General manager Scott Fitterer has worked a shrinking salary cap well in difficult circumstances, but it’s not hard to see they might be holding something back financially for a big move in the trade market.
The Panthers currently have $23.45 million at their disposal, according to Spotrac. They do need to sign their incoming batch of college recruits when the time comes. But the prospect of a veteran coming in via trade is something that should also be considered as the team looks to enter the postseason picture once again.
Carolina Panthers should explore trade options this offseason.
Dreams of Deshaun Watson might be dead in the water, at least for now. However, if team owner David Tepper is demanding a return on his investment on the field this time around, it might see those in power become a little bolder in their decision-making.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at four big trades the Panthers could still look into this offseason.
Trade Target No. 1
Chris Hubbard – OT
Although Chris Hubbard suffered his fair share of injury problems in 2020, the offensive lineman was still playing at a high level for the Cleveland Browns when he managed to see the field. The former undrafted prospect out of Alabama-Birmingham is heading into the final year of his deal and will make a base salary of $9.71 million, which the Carolina Panthers could absorb in this eventuality.
Cleveland now has Jedrick Willis Jr. and Jack Conklin occupying their edge protection. So the cost to acquire Hubbard may not be that great if the Panthers decide that a veteran rather than a high-end 2021 NFL Draft pick would be the best way to go in pursuit of filling the void left by Russell Okung.
The move would also be welcomed by the player, who would definitely get more in the way of playing time in Carolina.