Carolina Panthers made their moves before deadline day
Although it would have been nice to see some activity at the trade deadline, the Carolina Panthers made some moves well before that should stand them in good stead both this season and possibly beyond.
The main acquisition was Stephon Gilmore, who was set to be released by the New England Patriots before the Panthers swooped to acquire the All-Pro cornerback for nothing more than a 2023 sixth-round pick.
Carolina finally got to see Gilmore in action at the Atlanta Falcons in Week 8 after progressing well from a torn quad. And the former South Carolina star wasted no time in making an impact by locking down stud rookie Kyle Pitts and coming up with a crucial interception late in the game.
The Panthers also secured the services of talented young cornerback C.J. Henderson and a fifth-round pick from the Jacksonville Jaguars for a third-rounder and tight end, Dan Arnold. Although the Florida product has suffered some complications with injury since joining the team, this trade was always with the bigger picture in mind.
Considering how active Carolina has been in the trade business since Scott Fitterer took over, it was a surprise that nothing more was done before the deadline. But it’s not like the Panthers haven’t significantly strengthened – especially on the defensive side of the football.