Report: Panthers keeping ‘a close eye’ on Deshaun Watson situation

Is a trade to the Carolina Panthers likely?

The simple answer is no.

At least not right now.

Deshaun Watson is an exceptional player who would turn the Carolina Panthers into postseason challengers. Had the legal matters not surfaced, there appears little doubt David Tepper would have demanded a big-time move for the quarterback earlier this year.

There’s just too much risk involved currently. Even though general manager Scott Fitterer said he would be “in on every deal” following his arrival from the Seattle Seahawks.

Something that’s proven to be true during his first few months at the helm.

Nobody can say with any great confidence about how Watson’s issues will resolve. Although the NFL is treating it as an innocent until proven guilty situation by allowing the player to take part with his teammates at training camp.

Watson hasn’t been doing too much, which is another strong indicator that the Houston Texans are done with the player. He’s even been lining up at safety during drills.

Timing is everything in this situation. As soon as the situation regarding Watson becomes clearer, there should be plenty of teams either ready to swoop or move on from the idea of trading for the Pro Bowler.

The Panthers might end up going with Darnold, who has left a good impression overall at camp over the last week. However, the quarterback upgrade they’d get with Watson obviously isn’t going unnoticed by Tepper, deteriorating reputation or not.