Which teams could potentially look at acquiring Sam Darnold if the Carolina Panthers acquire another quarterback before their 2022 training camp?
Speculation continues to mount surrounding the future of Sam Darnold. The Carolina Panthers have worked tirelessly to find an upgrade this offseason and despite Matt Corral coming on board, there could be something else in the pipeline according to recent reports.
Talks are continuing about Baker Mayfield’s arrival amid serious interest from the Seattle Seahawks. ESPN’s insider Jeremy Fowler also stated that he believes the Panthers will soon make their play for Jimmy Garoppolo after the signal-caller got some good news on the health front.
All this is obviously unsettling for Darnold, even if there is nothing he can do about it. If Carolina pulls the trigger on another addition, then he’ll be surplus to requirements and might be shown the door one way or another.
Although the Panthers will likely have to eat a substantial part of Darnold’s fully guaranteed $18.85 million, here are five potential trade partners for the USC product before camp.
Team No. 1
Sam Darnold could join the Cleveland Browns
It doesn’t appear as if Baker Mayfield has any future with the Cleveland Browns after they acquired Deshaun Watson. But with a lengthy suspension looming for the quarterback, it’s left them in a tough spot.
Mayfield won’t play for the Browns again. That bridge has been burned and relying on Jacoby Brissett alone would be a huge risk.
If the Browns wanted another signal-caller with starting experience and Watson misses the entire year after settling 20 of 24 sexual misconduct allegations, then they might become more receptive to Sam Darnold if the money is right for them and the Carolina Panthers.