What are some potential stumbling blocks if the Carolina Panthers decide to explore a trade for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason?
If the Carolina Panthers are going to bring in another quarterback before the 2022 season, they would be wise to act quickly. This gives any new signal-caller the chance to enjoy a full training camp with the team, develop chemistry with teammates, and pick up the playbook well ahead of their Week 1 opener against the Cleveland Browns.
Matt Rhule stated during some recent media availability that he will sit down with general manager Scott Fitterer after the Panthers‘ mandatory minicamp and assess what else might be needed. Sam Darnold has made a strong start to OTAs according to reports, but the USC product has enough bad film to suggest he isn’t the answer.
With Matt Corral seemingly a long-term option, this leaves the Panthers exploring another bold trade for a veteran that might be able to provide immediate assistance. Baker Mayfield’s name constantly comes up, but it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see Carolina eventually acquire Jimmy Garoppolo from the San Francisco 49ers, either.
On this topic, we examined four potential stumbling blocks that need figuring out before Garoppolo to the Panthers becomes a reality.
Stumbling Block No. 1
What would the Carolina Panthers have to part with?
This would all start with compensation. The San Francisco 49ers are clearly moving forward with Trey Lance, which represents a potential avenue for the Carolina Panthers to get some bang for their buck if they did move for Jimmy Garoppolo.
Garoppolo has a good track record of producing the goods providing there is plenty of strength around him. But the Panthers will not want to overpay for a player who might not be around for anything more than one season.
San Francisco will not want such an expensive backup on their hands when they still need to pay Deebo Samuel. Something that could see some common ground reached quickly in this scenario.