5 most disappointing trades in Carolina Panthers history
By Dean Jones
"(Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports) Marty Hurney"
What are the most disappointing trades ever made by the Carolina Panthers during their 26-year history so far?
The Carolina Panthers are once again in flux. Not entirely surprising for an organization that’s never put together back-to-back winning seasons since its inception.
There were strong hopes things would finally start trending on an upward curve in 2021. The Panthers got a favorable schedule overall and expectations increased further following a 3-0 start that left many wondering whether postseason football was a real possibility.
Things have unraveled quickly. And the Panthers are now turning their attentions to the offseason after a fourth straight losing campaign was confirmed with defeat at the Buffalo Bills in Week 15.
Without further ado, we took a trip back in time and picked out the five most disappointing trades in Panthers history.
Trade No. 1
Atiyyah Ellison – Former Carolina Panthers DT
This might not sound that bad considering the compensation, but the fact Carolina moved up into the third round for a player that never appeared for the franchise was unacceptable.
Atiyyah Ellison came into the draft process as a prospect with some skills. But the Missouri defensive tackle struggled to adapt to the rigors of NFL life and was moved on pretty swiftly.
Ellison never made much of his career. His one taste of competitive action in the pros came in 2009 when he turned out 15 times and made six starts for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He wasn’t brought back the following offseason and that was a wrap.
The Panthers swung and missed on Ellison, it’s just that simple really.