Panthers dream mock draft: The perfect haul for Carolina in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers trade for Jimmy Garoppolo
Now that the Carolina Panthers have their left tackle of the future, attention will obviously turn to the quarterback position and finding an upgrade on Sam Darnold.
His trade from the New York Jets just didn’t go according to plan, to put it mildly. Even though Darnold is on the books for $18.85 million guaranteed in 2022, that won’t stop the primary decision-makers from bringing another veteran on board if the opportunity arises.
In this scenario, a deal is struck with the San Francisco 49ers for Jimmy Garoppolo, who might be surplus to requirements providing there is enough confidence in Trey Lance to get the job done. The former second-round pick has had successful surgery on his throwing shoulder this offseason, which the Panthers will obviously take into account before pulling the trigger.
If everything checks out on the health front and Garoppolo can get enough time with his new teammates before the campaign, then this represents the best solution for the Panthers to gain instant improvements rather than relying on a rookie.
Garoppolo has his flaws, obviously. But he does look like a good scheme fit in Ben McAdoo’s system and boasts a proven track record with a strong running game to lean on.
Carolina could also get Garoppolo at a discount price if the Niners agree to eat some of his salary – but there also appears to be some traction building for Baker Mayfield.