4 trades the Carolina Panthers could make during the 2022 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could trade for Jimmy Garoppolo
Finding a quarterback that can provide the Carolina Panthers with an instant upgrade on Sam Darnold is arguably the team’s biggest priority.
The former USC star failed to make the most out of yet another starting opportunity, to put it mildly. Although removing Darnold from the equation will be a tough task given his $18.85 million fully guaranteed contract next season, his time as the No. 1 option is all but over.
The Panthers failed in their attempts to land a premier player at the position this offseason. But there are one or two veterans still potentially on the block that could become difference-makers for a critical campaign in 2022.
Had Jimmy Garoppolo not undergone surgery on his throwing shoulder this offseason, one could make a strong case for this deal already taking place. The San Francisco 49ers haven’t shut the door on the signal-caller returning on the final year of his deal, but getting some cap space would be a wise move if the organization is confident enough in Trey Lance.
Much would depend on the compensation involved. If the Niners don’t come down a little from their reported asking price of two second-round picks, then the Panthers will probably look at alternative options.
Carolina would also need San Francisco to take on some of Garoppolo’s $26.95 million cap number next season – the last of his megabucks contract – to further sweeten the pot in this scenario.