What are some potential alternatives the Carolina Panthers could look at if they miss out on Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson?
The Carolina Panthers are hoping to meet with Deshaun Watson in the near future as they look to finally get their hands on the quarterback. A call has been made to the Houston Texans with what is sure to be an astronomical offer that will shake the NFL to its foundations, although the signal-caller has to waive his no-trade clause for the organization to stand any chance of acquiring him this offseason.
Watson won’t be facing any criminal charges regarding some significant sexual misconduct allegations. That was all team owner David Tepper needed to hear regarding a player he has coveted heavily for more than a year now.
Morality often goes out of the window in the NFL. Watson could still face a suspension by the league depending on the outcome of his civil cases, but Tepper has done an incredible amount of due diligence and even reportedly hired a private investigator to get as much information as humanly possible.
The Panthers are fighting it out with the New Orleans Saints for Watson. With Tom Brady going back on his retirement decision for one more season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where the former Clemson star ends up could alter the NFC South trajectory in 2022 and beyond.
Carolina has focused perhaps too much on Watson. There is also the small matter of Sam Darnold and his fully guaranteed $18.85 million contract to throw into the equation.
However, here are four quarterback alternatives if Watson opts to take his chances elsewhere and spurn Carolina’s advances.