4 Panthers rumors to emerge from 2023 NFL Scouting Combine
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers behind in Derek Carr sweepstakes
It wasn’t just college prospects that hogged the headlines this week. Derek Carr‘s presence at the NFL Scouting Combine was another fascinating element to the equation, with the veteran free-agent quarterback meeting with the Carolina Panthers early in the week – which team owner David Tepper traveled to attend.
Carr – who is also drawing interest from the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints – is scheduled to speak with the Panthers again on Monday via telephone. A move that would cripple their salary cap and cause friction among the fanbase for good measure.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Carr is slightly leaning toward the Jets right now. Nothing is confirmed one way or another, but it appears as if the Panthers are behind if their interest is legitimate.
"“While the Panthers and Saints remain in the conversation for Derek Carr, the former Pro Bowl quarterback has a slight lean toward the #Jets as his next home as of now, per source. Nothing is final, but Jets — who are linked to Aaron Rodgers — have made an impression.”"
Losing Carr would be a blessing in disguise, in all honesty. While the Pro Bowler could get a new lease of life following his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders, the Panthers have been stung plenty with suspect veteran moves in recent years and cannot afford to make the same mistakes again.