4 bold trades that would turn the Carolina Panthers into 2023 contenders
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could trade for Danielle Hunter
There’s been far less speculation surrounding Danielle Hunter‘s future than at any stage over the last two offseasons. But things can happen quickly in the NFL and the Minnesota Vikings have some important financial decisions to make in the not-too-distant future.
Minnesota is currently $24.46 million over the cap. Removing Hunter from the equation doesn’t help them this year, but it provides financial flexibility in 2024 and beyond with a potential Super Bowl window closing with every passing year.
The Carolina Panthers need another capable pass-rusher to put opposite Brian Burns. Hunter played in a 3-4 last season under Ed Donatell, so his transition to Ejiro Evero’s scheme should go smoothly in this hypothetical scenario.
Acquiring Hunter via trade does seem like a long shot, but pairing him with Burns would instantly give Carolina arguably the NFL’s most dominant edge-rushing tandem. However, of all the bold moves on this list, appears the most unlikely.
Hunter proved last season that his injury problems are a thing of the past. Pass-rushers with versatility that consistently put up exceptional numbers don’t grow on trees, which is why the Vikings will do whatever it takes to keep the one-time LSU stud around.
Even if it means making sacrifices elsewhere.