Panthers jump before they’re pushed as bridesmaid in Deshaun Watson trade

The Carolina Panthers got out in front by pulling out of any potential trade for Deshaun Watson, according to multiple reports. 

After two days of intense speculation, the Carolina Panthers reportedly removed themselves once again from a possible trade for Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans. This ongoing saga seems to be taking a different turn every minute, with the team exploring the possibility of acquiring the signal-caller following Sam Darnold’s recent regression and eventual benching at the New York Giants.

Team owner David Tepper is getting tired of watching losing football. And it doesn’t appear as if Darnold is capable of leading the Panthers back into postseason contention.

However, considering all the legal complications surrounding Watson and what it would take to land him, it’s a substantial gamble that Carolina simply isn’t in a position to do at the present time.

First reported by Ian Rappaport of the NFL Network, the Panthers are now not in the running for Watson before the November 2 trade deadline, with the signal-caller reportedly only waiving his no-trade clause for the Miami Dolphins so far.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated confirmed that Carolina called Houston for the first time in a while this week without anything major coming from the discussions.

"“The Panthers talked to the Texans this week for the first time in a couple of months. They’ve been monitoring the situation, but not actively involved. Things could change … but only six days left until the deadline.”"

It seems a deal might be close with the Dolphins – Watson’s preferred destination all along. But one cannot help but get the feeling that the Panthers jumped before they were pushed in this scenario.

First, the resurfacing rumors of Watson’s arrival didn’t go down too well with a large section of the team’s fanbase. Not entirely surprising considering the number of sexual misconduct allegations facing the former Clemson star.

Carolina Panthers playing second-fiddle in Deshaun Watson trade talks.

Furthermore, the Panthers are clearly second in the queue behind Miami. A case of “well we didn’t want him anyway” in case the Dolphins do end up pulling the trigger.

Sentiments that were echoed by Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

"“Basically, the Dolphins, Texans, and Watson have dibs on getting something accomplished. If it doesn’t happen, the Panthers will get a chance. For now, the Panthers are in the batter’s box. But they remain on deck.”"

It’s a huge mess.

A testament to Carolina’s inability to find the right solution under center ever since they took the decision to let Cam Newton leave with one year remaining on his deal.

With so many conflicting reports, it’s really hard to believe things one way or another. The story is also becoming incredibly tiresome.

We might not have to wait much longer before the situation comes to a conclusion. But according to Josina Anderson of USA Today, there is also the possibility Watson doesn’t get traded at all.

The Panthers are the bridesmaid in this situation. No matter how much they want to tell people they aren’t interested.

If that was the case, a leak wouldn’t have occurred almost immediately following their Week 7 loss.

Just another situation this regime has handled terribly. With absolutely no conviction one way or the other.

A sign of the times on and off the field.