4 major obstacles that could prevent Panthers trade for Kirk Cousins
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers cap implications
Outside of the compensation, there are also some severe cap considerations to consider when examining a potential trade for Kirk Cousins. The Carolina Panthers have just $17.86 million available right now, which will obviously come up once some restructures, trades or early releases occur in the coming weeks before or during the all-important free agency period.
That being said, it’s hard to envisage a situation where the Panthers would be in a position to take on Cousins’ contract as it stands. The former Michigan State standout is set to count a whopping $45 million against the cap in 2022 and according to reports, is not willing to take any sort of pay cut without a long-term extension.
Perhaps the Panthers could persuade the Minnesota Vikings to absorb some of this financial commitment. But considering the NFC North team is currently $14.72 million over the cap, this appears highly unlikely.
Taking on Cousins and his guaranteed money would also prevent the Panthers from strengthening key areas such as the offensive line. Something they’d absolutely have to do considering the veteran is considered more of a pocket passer than a signal-caller that can make things happen on the run.
Carolina has one of the best cap managers around in Samir Suleiman, but even he’ll have his work cut out trying to make this trade work.