Panthers trade for Lamar Jackson: Packages, comparisons and is he worth it?

What benchmarks can the Carolina Panthers learn from?

Based on the Matthew Stafford, Russell Wilson, and Deshaun Watson trades in recent years, a deal for Lamar Jackson would require a lot of draft capital going to the Baltimore Ravens. Perhaps even the biggest package in NFL history.

The Los Angeles Rams gave up first-round picks in 2022 and 2023, together with a third-round selection in their trade for Stafford. Although it was worth its weight in gold looking at the bigger picture.

Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos sacrificed Drew Lock, Noah Fant, and Shelby Harris, in addition to two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and a fifth-round pick to acquire Wilson. The Cleveland Browns parted with three first-rounders and two mid-round selections for Watson.

The Rams did go on to win the Super Bowl in Stafford’s first season. However, the Broncos were one of the NFL’s worst teams and their pick at No. 5 overall belongs to the Seattle Seahawks because of the trade.

Watson has not performed to the level he was expected to. And the Houston Texans have the No. 12 overall pick to go along with their own at No. 2 as a result.

The best comparison Scott Fitterer can use for a Jackson trade is the deal Cleveland made to acquire Watson. A swap where the Browns gave up a number of valuable draft picks despite the significant cloud hanging over the former Clemson star.

The context of this situation is different as well. Watson was dealing with his off-field issues, lowering his trade value. Jackson does not have any concerns of that kind and is a model citizen within the community.

Additionally, Jackson is a former NFL MVP. Something none of the three aforementioned quarterbacks have ever won. This means landing him will take even more capital in all likelihood.