Why are the Carolina Panthers still being linked with Deshaun Watson?
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers named as potential Deshaun Watson suitor
The uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson’s future is there for all to see. But that hasn’t stopped national media outlets from discussing this matter heavily in recent days as we get close to training camp.
Some leading analysts including Adam Schefter tipped the Philadelphia Eagles as a team to monitor should Watson sort out his issues and avoid a league suspension. The Denver Broncos may have acquired Teddy Bridgewater from the Carolina Panthers before the draft, but they are another organization that would jump at the chance of bringing the signal-caller on board.
However, the Panthers are being thrown around as a possible dark horse contender, most recently on ESPN’s debate show Get Up!
This is just speculation, obviously.
Carolina believes in Sam Darnold’s chances of progression in a better scheme and with far more talent around him. But although they did pick up his fifth-year option, this is far from a long-term arrangement at the present time.
If Darnold fails to meet objectives, then the Panthers will be on the lookout for another starting-caliber player under center. A task that’s proven difficult to attain since their decision to release Cam Newton ahead of time.
These rumors don’t seem to be going away anytime soon.
In truth, they’ll only cease if Darnold performs to an exceptionally high standard or another team agrees on a trade for Watson before Carolina gets a chance.