5 shock departures the Panthers could trade before 2022 deadline
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players could become shock departures before the 2022 trade deadline this week?
The NFL’s trade deadline always comes with rumors and speculation about players going to pastures new. In the Carolina Panthers’ case, they’ve already dealt Christian McCaffrey and Robbie Anderson for much-needed draft capital after some poor personnel moves in the three years under previous head coach Matt Rhule.
Somehow, the Panthers still find themselves in contention for a divisional title despite losing in gut-wrenching fashion at the Atlanta Falcons in Week 8. So whether or not those in power would be willing to let more established figures depart before November 1 is the big question.
That’s for the likes of general manager Scott Fitterer and team owner David Tepper to decide. Interim head coach Steve Wilks will be kept informed, but it’s unlikely he’ll have too much of a say considering he’s yet to win the job full-time.
With this in mind, here are five Panthers players that could be traded before the deadline if the team continues focusing on the future.
Player No. 1
Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB
While Donte Jackson recently signed a new three-year deal to prevent him from leaving in free agency, his contract is still pretty easy to move in 2022. Whether the Carolina Panthers would be willing to sacrifice their most experienced cornerback for draft capital is another matter.
Jackson has been solid but inconsistent this season. Injuries are also proving complicated for the former second-round selection to overcome, but the Panthers aren’t blessed with great depth within their secondary and outside of Jaycee Horn, quality production is also scarce.
That could mean Jackson stays around. But general manager Scott Fitterer will always listen and do what’s best for the organization overall.