Rumor: Carolina Panthers “could be interested” in Drew Lock

The Carolina Panthers could be interested in acquiring Drew Lock from the Denver Broncos if they don’t draft a quarterback at No. 8 overall.

It’s becoming increasingly likely that the quarterback carousel is not done yet where the Carolina Panthers are concerned. The organization acquired Sam Darnold from the New York Jets that ultimately led to Teddy Bridgewater being traded to the Denver Broncos for a sixth-round pick, but there is plenty of speculation still linking them with Justin Fields if the Ohio State signal-caller falls into their laps.

This would be a bombshell decision considering the obvious needs at cornerback and left tackle. But the new regime has demonstrated a willingness to go against the grain this offseason if they feel it will benefit the team long-term.

Trading for Bridgewater isn’t expected to change Denver’s plans, who are also on the lookout for one of the top quarterback prospects according to multiple reports. That would leave Drew Lock on the outside looking in, which could see some more activity on the trade market.

According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, there is a “strong perception” that Lock would be on the trading block on Day 2 of the draft if they manage to land a high-end prospect.

Carolina Panthers could be interested in Drew Lock.

The respected reporter stated that the Minnesota Vikings could show an interest in Lock to solidify their backup option behind Kirk Cousins, but Breer also said the Panthers could also be in the mix if they miss out on Fields.

"“Carolina was one team I heard could be in the mix, but that’d be if they don’t draft one Thursday night (and I think they could).”"

It’s really hard to figure out what to make of this. If this situation played out and they went back to Denver for another quarterback trade deal, it has the distinct feel of yet another consolation prize during an offseason that started with some lofty ambitions to land Matthew Stafford and Deshaun Watson before the team settled on Darnold.

Lock went through some problems in 2020 after being tipped as a possible breakout star. Much like Darnold, he is young enough for another team to give him the benefit of the doubt. But having two signal-callers in the same boat wouldn’t be the best way for the Panthers to succeed next season.

Besides, if this deal was going to be made, then perhaps it would have been a straight swap between Bridgewater and Lock on Wednesday.

This is something to keep an eye on if the Panthers don’t secure a college prospect at the position. The decision could be made for them if another team makes a bold move up, so if they are intent on getting someone else with some upside to compete with Darnold, then making an offer for Lock is not entirely out of the question.

General manager Scott Fitterer did state he’ll be in on every deal. But it’s getting a bit silly now.