4 best-case scenarios for Panthers during the 2021 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers trade Teddy Bridgewater

This might happen before the 2021 NFL Draft, but it’s clear that Teddy Bridgewater‘s time with the Carolina Panthers is going to be done in the coming weeks. The quarterback is now surplus to requirements after their move to acquire Sam Darnold, which brings a sad end to the player’s chance to secure another starting opportunity in the NFL.

Giving Bridgewater a three-year, $63 million deal with a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million guaranteed seemed odd at the time and it’s something the Panthers will be paying for next season and possibly beyond even if they do manage to get a draft pick in return for the signal-caller.

That was nothing to do with new general manager Scott Fitterer, who has made a strong start to his time in the role and will now work with the hand he’s been dealt where Bridgewater is concerned. There should be plenty of interest in the Louisville product if Carolina releases him, so it might be worth the Panthers taking on some of his guaranteed money next year to get themselves a mid-round selection in return.

Whether this comes before or during the draft is irrelevant. The important thing for the Panthers is moving Bridgewater along and avoiding what would surely be awkward participation at OTAs and training camp.