3 reasons the Carolina Panthers should avoid Derek Carr trade
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers need a long-term plan
After three years of no clear long-term plan following Matt Rhule’s decision to unceremoniously release former NFL MVP Cam Newton, the time for change is now. The Carolina Panthers cannot afford to risk value draft capital on a veteran signal-caller down on his luck, which is exactly what Derek Carr is after failing miserably with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022.
Carr’s leadership is often commended. But when the Raiders needed him to come through in key situations this season, he fell flat on his face.
This should make the Panthers think twice about securing Carr’s services via trade. After similar moves for Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold didn’t pan out, those in power would be wise to begin their new era with a concise plan rather than another gamble.
Much will depend on who comes in as head coach. The Panthers might also need to trade up for one of the better college quarterbacks after their resurgence under Steve Wilks saw them drop to No. 9 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Carr might be serviceable in the short term. But this would be another sideways move for a franchise that cannot seem to get things right under center.
And if previous history is any indication, the results would not be positive.