That leaves Diontae Johnson as one of many names to observe over the approaching days. A weekend report deemed it likely a trade would be worked out between the Panthers and a contending workforce trying so as to add him for the stretch run. Certainly, Joe Particular person of The Athletic notes it seems to be “a matter of when, not if” Johnson winds up being traded (subscription required). Echoing that sentiment, Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline adds Carolina is sad with the pending free agent (who was damage this previous week), one thing which might level additional to a commerce going down.
The Panthers acquired Johnson from the Steelers this offseason after the 28-year-old requested to be moved. One yr stays on his pact, which features a base wage of $7M. Absorbing the prorated portion of that determine could be possible for quite a few groups, though Johnson has expressed a desire to remain in Carolina. With none extension talks having taken place — and with the 1-7 Panthers firmly within the vendor’s class — although, it might come as no shock if a deal had been to be made.
Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reports a number of consumers are exhibiting curiosity, so Carolina might up the asking value if a enough market is generated. Then again, a mid-round decide was beforehand talked about as an appropriate return, and Jason La Canfora of the Washington Post adds the Panthers are anticipated to “take no matter they’ll get” in deal involving both Johnson or fellow wideout Adam Thielen. Buying further draft capital is an apparent objective for the rebuilding franchise, one which might very nicely have a brand new beginning quarterback by Week 1 of subsequent season.
The likes of edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney and operating again Miles Sanders are additionally potential commerce candidates in Carolina’s case. Whereas one or each of these gamers might very nicely be on the transfer within the close to future, the highest identify to observe stays Johnson.