Are the Carolina Panthers in a two-horse race for Deshaun Watson?

Deshaun Watson remains a player of interest for the Carolina Panthers despite the obvious complications, according to a recent report.

Another week, another report linking the Carolina Panthers with a bold trade to acquire Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans. The quarterback’s significant legal complications have yet to conclude or even progress one way or another, which obviously complicates matters for any team looking to add the player before the 2022 season gets underway.

It’s no secret that the Panthers have been watching Watson’s situation with great interest since he declared his intention to secure a move away from the organization. Team owner David Tepper was pushing to go all-in and land the former Clemson star before matters away from the gridiron surfaced, but there’s been no indication as to whether or not he’d waive his no-trade clause to join Carolina, in any case.

Carolina Panthers remain interested in Deshaun Watson

Until the Panthers go in a different direction, the speculation will remain. According to Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network, they remain interested in Watson but could face competition from the Washington Commanders if the player’s sexual misconduct allegations are resolved.

"“The Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers remain interested in Watson, per league sources. As much as the Texans want to trade Watson, they realize that the criminal justice system and civil litigation move slowly. And perhaps the list of teams will grow exponentially if his legal problems are resolved favorably.”"

Obviously, waiting around for Watson is a big gamble. One that might not pay off as the Panthers hope if the NFL suspends the signal-caller as a result of the legal issues.

Watson missed the entire 2021 campaign for this exact reason. Although the Panthers took one final look before the trade deadline, they were right not to pull the trigger.

The fact Carolina continues to be linked with Watson is frustrating for large sections of the team’s fanbase. It does have an air of desperation attached, but this is a situation those in power brought on themselves with a series of failed moves that began with Cam Newton’s release and also saw the team give up three draft selections to the New York Jets for Sam Darnold.

Matt Rhule does not have the luxury of time anymore. That’s why it’s essential the primary decision-maker who gets the final say on personnel decisions doesn’t get hung up on the off chance Watson’s situation improves and he shows a willingness to come on board.

Considering how long the legal process takes more often than not, we might be waiting a while yet. Taking a risk and giving up significant draft capital before then is simply not an option no matter how talented Watson is on the field.

There are now serious doubts about Watson’s character that simply wasn’t there before. The magnitude of these allegations dictate such perceptions and many would not welcome the player like they were willing to with open arms around this time last year.

One suspects this is going to drag. As more teams look in different directions, it’s going to make life difficult for the Texans if they want to maximize Watson’s trade value and shrink their salary cap in the process.

Whether Carolina’s ongoing infatuation with Watson amounts to anything remains to be seen. But they’d be wise to explore alternatives or risk getting left further behind.