4 better backup quarterback options the Panthers could trade for in 2021
By Dean Jones
Jarrett Stidham
It’s clear that Jarrett Stidham was held in high regard by Bill Belichick. But this faith has not been repaid by the quarterback as yet.
Stidham has been inconsistent at best during his time on the field and the New England Patriots weren’t going to sit on their hands and wait to see if he can turn things around this summer before competitive action begins.
They brought back former Carolina Panthers player Cam Newton on a one-year deal. More telling, however, was the Patriots’ decision to select Alabama signal-caller Mac Jones at No. 15 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.
This leaves Stidham with plenty of work to do in pursuit of winning any sort of time on the field next season. If the Panthers are looking for a backup with a little more upside, then they’ve shown a willingness to take chances on players like this during the first two offseasons of Matt Rhule’s reign as head coach.
There would be no quarterback competition if Stidham was acquired.
Carolina believes in Sam Darnold’s ability and is giving him at least next season to prove his worth. But it wouldn’t hurt to have someone like Stidham waiting in the wings if things turn sour quickly.
Stidham is another who might deserve the benefit of the doubt with a distinct lack of talent around him in New England. Whether he’ll get it remains to be seen.