The Carolina Panthers have avoided the temptation to make any bold incoming trades throughout Dan Morgan's time as general manager. But with the team in form and looking to go deeper into the playoffs this season, it might be time to shift course.
Morgan must manage this situation carefully. The Panthers value their draft picks, so it would have to be the right deal. They are also up against it on the salary cap, so Carolina would have to move some money around to make any trade possible.
It'll be interesting to see what unfolds in the coming weeks. But if the Panthers decide to make a move, here are five possible options they should consider.
Trade targets the Carolina Panthers could investigate before the 2026 deadline
Daron Payne, DL
The Commanders are not out of the NFC East race despite being 1-4-1. But if that turns into 1-6-1 after their bye week, general manager Adam Peters could be forced to sell as he looks to the future.
Terry McLaurin's torn patellar tendon rules him out for the entire season, taking him off the table in any trade. That leaves defensive lineman Daron Payne as their most valuable asset, and he would be a significant addition to Carolina's defensive front.
Payne might not have lived up to his big-money contract, but he's still productive. The Panthers would need to move some money around to make this happen, but even with Tershawn Wharton back, this remains a viable option.
Brian Thomas Jr., WR
The Panthers have their top-two receivers locked up in Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker. But with Xavier Legette on injured reserve, another dynamic option wouldn't hurt if Brad Idzik's offense wants to take the next step.
Brian Thomas Jr.'s situation with the Jacksonville Jaguars is almost past the point of no return. The 2024 first-round pick was benched in the second half against the Houston Texans in London, which immediately sparked speculation about his future.
A fresh start would be the best possible solution for all parties. Thomas will have suitors, and even though he is a high-risk acquisition, the rewards would be substantial if he regained his rookie form.
Riq Woolen, CB
Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr. are out indefinitely. The Panthers have relied on rookie fourth-rounder Will Lee III and Akayleb Evans to pick up the slack, but to mount a serious postseason push, they need more.
The Philadelphia Eagles are in turmoil right now. Quarterback Jalen Hurts is out for the season, and they are free-falling on the field. This could lead general manager Howie Roseman to dispose of some assets, and the NFC East club has a lot of talent.
Riq Woolen could be made surplus to requirements. He's on a one-year deal and may not get another one. Head coach Dave Canales worked with him during their time together on the Seattle Seahawks, so it makes sense if the compensation isn't too steep.
Will McDonald IV, OLB
The Panthers lost Nic Scourton for the season on the first day of training camp. Jaelan Phillips is now dealing with a hamstring issue and has already been ruled out for Week 7. Patrick Jones II and Princely Umanmielen will likely start, with Thomas Incoom and Trevis Gipson Sr. also set for extended roles.
Much will depend on Phillips' status, but no team can ever have enough good edge rushers. And looking at the young, hungry options available, Will McDonald IV could be a worthwhile acquisition to the ranks.
McDonald has the size and length to fit into Ejiro Evero's defensive scheme. He's explosive off the snap and anticipates things well. But with just two sacks and one start this season, the Jets may be receptive to offers.
Tony Pollard, RB
The Tennessee Titans are going nowhere fast this season. Carolina could use another productive running back to take the pressure off Chuba Hubbard. Tony Pollard is exactly that, and it might not cost all that much to bring him in.
Pollard has 349 rushing yards and one touchdown through six games. He's a dual-threat when given pass-catching chances out of the backfield, but Tennessee has underused him there. They also have Tyjae Spears if they want to look towards the future.
If the Titans continue to struggle before the deadline, they could move Pollard. And with Jonathon Brooks' status uncertain on injured reserve, this would be a shrewd move.
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