What would a perfect first round look like for the Panthers in 2021?

The quarterback conundrum

For the Carolina Panthers, an effective and active offseason has left the team more equipped to go after the best player available. But truthfully, the team still has big holes to fill on the offensive line and at safety.

Here’s where I differ.

After trading for Sam Darnold from the New York Jets, the Panthers should not be trying to double dip and lose out on filling another position. If the likes of Justin Fields or Trey Lance are available then the possibility of trading back would be very high since some teams are willing to give up a good haul for this crop of the top signal-callers.

But is Fields worth it? Some analysts who have been highly critical of the prospect during the evaluation process would doubt it.

He does have the talent and drive to play. However, after trading three picks over the next two years in order to bring Darnold on board, why would drafting another be a high priority in this draft for these Carolina Panthers?

Maybe a draft-day trade for Darnold and Teddy Bridgewater would help. But again, why?

Neither player will garner a high draft pick, but maybe mid-round selections that the team could package together for a second or third-round pick or use to get some diamonds in the rough later on in the selection process.