3 reasons the Carolina Panthers traded for Laviska Shenault Jr.
By Dean Jones
Why did the Carolina Panthers make another move at the skill positions by acquiring Laviska Shenault Jr. from the Jacksonville Jaguars?
Despite having plenty of options on offense, it did not stop the Carolina Panthers from pulling the trigger on another trade before the final round of cuts. Those in power within the organization struck a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars for Laviska Shenault Jr., a former second-round selection who hasn’t exactly met expectations over his first two years in the league.
This is the second time Carolina’s gambled on a player from the Jaguars. Gifted cornerback C.J. Henderson joined the Panthers last year and after taking time to settle, he could be an important player in 2022 after making considerable strides this summer.
Just how much Shenault can help remains to be seen. There are some flaws regarding the No. 42 overall selection in 2020, but he’s worked with offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo before and could carve out a role for himself with a smooth transition.
It might seem strange. But here are some reasons why the Panthers traded for Shenault heading into the upcoming campaign.
Reason No. 1
Carolina Panthers didn’t give much up for Laviska Shenault Jr.
There was plenty of chatter about the potential arrival of Denzel Mims from the New York Jets, who worked with Matt Rhule before at Baylor. However, the price was probably a lot steeper than what the Carolina Panthers eventually gave up for Laviska Shenault Jr.
According to multiple reports, the Panthers parted ways with a 2023 seventh-round selection and a 2024 sixth-rounder. Shenault isn’t a sure thing by any stretch of the imagination, but the primary decision-makers felt it was a risk worth taking considering the cost.
The Panthers have parted ways with a significant amount of draft capital since Scott Fitterer became general manager. So perhaps a Day 2 pick for Mims or someone else was a step too far.