After securing quarterback Baker Mayfield, what other trades should the Carolina Panthers consider making before the 2022 season?
Now that the Carolina Panthers finally have Baker Mayfield on board, those in power can begin turning their attention to other needs on the roster. Much of this will depend on how certain individuals perform in training camp, but it won’t take long to figure out which areas need further reinforcements when push comes to shove in Spartanburg.
The Panthers have draft capital and enough salary-cap space to make another trade should they wish. This is an area that general manager Scott Fitterer has utilized heavily since replacing Marty Hurney, so don’t be surprised if another deal occurs should the right opportunity come along.
There is a keen desire for the Panthers to maximize every possible avenue with a view to progressing next season. And make no mistake, any further failings will not be tolerated by the fanbase or team owner David Tepper.
With that being said, here are four more trades the Panthers could consider before the 2022 season begins.
Trade No. 1
Carolina Panthers could target Earnest Brown
- Defensive Line | Los Angeles Rams
One area the Carolina Panthers could use additional depth is along their defensive front. Although Earnest Brown was seldom seen for the Los Angeles Rams during their Super Bowl success in 2021, he has reportedly flashed in practice and might be a chance worth taking if the second-year-pro becomes available.
He was selected in the fifth round out of Northwestern during the 2021 draft after attaining 71 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and seven sacks throughout his stint in college. The Panthers lost Haason Reddick in free agency and did little to replace him, so someone with the high athletic upside Brown brings to the table might be something to consider.
Brown also has the size and strength to play anywhere on the defensive front, but he is buried down the depth chart in Los Angeles. A trait highly valued by Carolina’s primary decision makers.