4 better backup quarterback options the Panthers could trade for in 2021
By Dean Jones
Could the Carolina Panthers go into the quarterback trade market once again for a better backup option to Sam Darnold in 2021?
The Carolina Panthers are hoping Sam Darnold is the quarterback to lead them long-term after they acquired him via trade from the New York Jets this offseason. They made no secret of their intent to move on from Teddy Bridgewater after just one season and even though the former USC star has disappointed during his career so far, his upside is considerably higher if he makes a better go of things in a different environment.
However, the Panthers might need to get themselves a better backup option in case Darnold struggles or gets injured at some stage.
If those in power thought Will Grier or P.J. Walker was up to the required standard, they wouldn’t have traded for Darnold in the first place.
Both have been erratic during the early part of offseason workouts, according to media in attendance, so the Panthers might decide to go back into the trade market and get someone that can provide more consistency at a moment’s notice.
Every good team needs a quality backup option these days. Here are five potential trade targets for Carolina if they choose to go in this direction before the 2021 season.
Carolina Panthers: Backup QB trade targets in 2021
Quarterback No. 1
Brandon Allen
Now that Joe Burrow looks set to make a return for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021, it would be a huge surprise if Brandon Allen saw the field at any stage.
His time under center wasn’t helped by a lack of protection in 2020, which is also the primary reason why Burrow’s rookie campaign ended early and on an extremely sour note.
That being said, he has good poise in the pocket and is experienced enough to pick up Joe Brady’s playbook quickly. One could argue he represents an upgrade on anything the Carolina Panthers have behind Sam Darnold currently and considering Allen is out of contract next spring, it wouldn’t cost a great deal in compensation to get him to the organization.