4 critical observations from Deshaun Watson spurning the Panthers
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must change their approach
Swinging for the fences and making rash moves at the quarterback position has been a poisoned chalice for the Carolina Panthers since the team decided to release Cam Newton after Matt Rhule declared how excited he was to work with the former NFL MVP. Teddy Bridgewater was given huge money and lasted one season, with the trade for Sam Darnold also blowing up in their faces and costing them three draft picks in the process.
Deshaun Watson would have been a complete game-changer. An instant problem solver to propel the Panthers from obscurity to relevancy in the blink of an eye.
However, this latest swing and miss for the signal-caller could lead to a drastic change in approach. Although the prospect of another trade happening cannot be ruled out given how much pressure is on Rhule to get things right in Year 3 of his tenure.
The options appear limited, to put it mildly. This draft class is also not expected to come with anybody that can provide immediate help from Day 1 to further complicate matters.
Putting all their eggs in Watson’s basket was a risky move, to begin with. He obviously preferred the Miami Dolphins this time last year and once other teams began showing interest, Carolina went from pole position to back of the line in a hurry.
The recruitment process now has to alter. But what conclusions emerge is another matter.,