Carolina Panthers vs. Cleveland Browns
As fate would have it, the Carolina Panthers could be coming up against a quarterback they coveted for more than a year in Week 1 when the Cleveland Browns come to Bank of America Stadium.
Providing Deshaun Watson does not get a suspension from the league regarding 22 pending civil suits regarding sexual misconduct allegations, the former Clemson man will be making his Browns debut after choosing them as his preferred destination thanks in no small part to the fully guaranteed $230 million he received from the organization.
This is a game that has many storylines attached. Considering the Panthers have not entirely shut the door on trading for Baker Mayfield, it could also be an early revenge game for the former Oklahoma standout if a move to Carolina becomes a reality.
Week 1 will also be a baptism of fire for No. 6 overall selection Ikem Ekwonu, who will pit his exceptional talent against defensive end Myles Garrett, who has long been regarded as one of the league’s most feared pass-rushers.
Week 1 Prediction: Loss (0-1)
Much will obviously depend on who is starting under center and how things come together during the offseason. But this will be a difficult opening contest and one that Carolina might have a tough time getting something out of.