5 trade targets for the Panthers after Week 3 of the 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Which players could the Carolina Panthers potentially acquire via trade to solve some emerging problem areas on their roster?
We are now three weeks into the 2021 season and there have been some encouraging signs where the Carolina Panthers are concerned. Matt Rhule’s men are currently sitting at 3-0 following a win at the Houston Texans on Thursday Night Football, with plenty of substantial challenges to come before their fate is sealed at the end of the campaign.
General manager Scott Fitterer cannot be accused of sitting on his hands since arriving from the Seattle Seahawks. Now that he has a better indication of what Carolina’s roster can do in a competitive setting, it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see the Panthers go down the trade route in pursuit of improving their chances moving forward.
Carolina Panthers need more pieces to become playoff contenders.
This team doesn’t appear that far off from truly contending. But it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out where the problems lie.
Whether those in power want to wait until the end of the season or nearer the deadline is up for debate. However, striking while the iron is hot might be the right move to avoid missing out on a potential trade candidate that might be available.
With this in mind, here are five potential trade targets for the Panthers after their Week 3 contest.
Trade Target No. 1
Kaleb McGary – OL
The Carolina Panthers have shown a willingness to take chances on underperforming players that came into the NFL with big college reputations. Kaleb McGary certainly fits into this bracket and providing he’s willing to shift to the interior, it’s something for the team to consider.
McGary hasn’t lived up to expectations after the Atlanta Falcons drafted him in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He was solid if not spectacular over the 2020 season and has shown some inconsistencies this time around to cast further doubt on his long-term aspirations.
Atlanta might not be willing to deal with an NFC South rival, but if they can get something in return for McGary at this stage, it’s something to discuss.