4 desperate moves the Panthers might make after Deshaun Watson decision
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could reach for a QB
Obviously, not getting Deshaun Watson to the Carolina Panthers is a blow of epic proportions for David Tepper and Matt Rhule. Although reports suggested the meeting went well, it’s been clear almost from the outset that if the former first-round pick had another offer on the table, he was going to accept it rather than take his chances at Bank of America Stadium.
With options on the free-agent market slim at best and trading for a veteran coming with its own set of complications, the Panthers might have no alternative other than to examine potential college prospects that could become franchise signal-caller.
There is a big problem with this. The 2022 class isn’t full of capable starting options, certainly not right away, so reaching for someone like Kenny Pickett or Malik Willis rather than selecting an elite left tackle could come back to haunt the Panthers in a big way.
What if Willis and Pickett come in, take time to develop, then Rhule gets fired after the 2022 season? Something that is entirely possible.
A new head coach could have a completely different perception of either player. And the Panthers might even be in with a shot of drafting someone like C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young if things go as everyone anticipates.
Willis has more upside. Pickett looks more pro-ready.
But neither can truly be counted upon to become productive Day 1 starting options. There is absolutely no doubt about that whatsoever.