5 factors that could see the Panthers go back for Deshaun Watson in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers QB Sam Darnold’s production
One of the main factors behind whether or not the Carolina Panthers will go back in for Deshaun Watson following the season is the production of quarterback Sam Darnold. The team gave up three draft picks to secure the former first-round pick from the New York Jets and after a positive start, there are now some real questions about his long-term future with the franchise.
Darnold did show some signs of life at the Atlanta Falcons, albeit with far less responsibility on his shoulders after the Panthers finally went through with their run-first mentality. The USC product is now in the concussion protocol and unlikely to take part in Week 9, so what comes next after that is going to be crucial.
This is a constant evaluation where Darnold is concerned. And the rumors linking Carolina with Watson after his benching at the New York Giants indicate that those in power might not be truly sold on the signal caller.
There is still time for Darnold to turn things around. But he needs to be more efficient within his progressions and decision-making distributing the football in order to extend his stay.
The Panthers picked up Darnold’s fifth-year option, so there’s a high chance he’ll still be on the roster in 2022. In what capacity that will be is yet to be determined and if the player regresses between now and the end of the campaign, then a bombshell trade for Watson could be the team’s top priority.