4 best-case draft scenarios for the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers find a QB to develop
Sam Darnold simply cannot be counted upon to be a productive starter for the Carolina Panthers in 2022. His trade from the New York Jets began promisingly before a disastrous end and the organization has made their intentions about finding an upgrade at the position this offseason.
Failed trades for Russell Wilson and Deshaun Watson could lead Carolina down the draft route. Even though there are some big-time questions to answer about this class and whether any can come in and make an instant impression.
There is also the small matter of Darnold’s fully guaranteed $18.85 million next season to consider. Something that might prevent the Panthers from acquiring a player like Jimmy Garoppolo or Baker Mayfield even if they have the cap space to do so.
Whether it’s a Day 1 starter or a development project, the Panthers have to get another body in their quarterback room to compete with Darnold, at the very least. Anything else would be a failure that could come with grave consequences.
Trading down from No. 6 or up into the second or third round are options for the Panthers to achieve this. Although much will depend on which – if any – signal-callers Carolina identifies to help their chances in the short and long-term.
Just another fascinating factor to keep a close eye on during the draft.