The Carolina Panthers are at a pivotal point in their journey to reclaiming their former glory in the NFL. After a season of highs and lows, the team clearly needs more than a few key pieces to solidify their roster for the 2024 campaign. With the right trades, the Panthers can transform from hopeful contenders to formidable challengers. Here, we identify three crucial trade targets—Courtland Sutton, Dawson Knox, and Tremaine Edmunds—that the Panthers must pursue to round out their roster and make a serious playoff push.
Reflecting on the 2023 Season
The Panthers endured a challenging 2023-2024 season, finishing with a league-worst 2-15 record. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young managed to throw for 2,877 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He showed flashes of potential despite the team's struggles. Adding to their woes, the Panthers were unable to secure the first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. They traded it away along with wide receiver DJ Moore to acquire the first pick of the 2023 draft.
The organization has since undergone significant changes. On January 24, the Panthers appointed Dave Canales as their new head coach following the dismissals of Frank Reich and Chris Tabor. Additionally, General Manager Scott Fitterer was relieved of his duties on January 8 after three seasons with a 14-37 record. Dan Morgan, a former Panthers first-round pick and then Assistant General Manager, was promoted to President of Football Operations and General Manager on January 22.
Carolina also drafted some promising rookies like Xavier Legette, Jonathon Brooks, and Trevin Wallace among their first few picks in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Here we'll look at the three players whom the Carolina Panthers can consider their best target targets to round out the 2024 roster.
Courtland Sutton, WR
Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton skipped the first round of OTAs amid his pursuit of a new contract. Despite multiple reports indicating the Broncos' reluctance to trade him, Sutton's name has been consistently floated in trade rumors. This hesitation to part ways with Sutton is understandable. This is especially true after Denver traded Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix will need a reliable target, and Sutton fits the bill.
However, Nix might already have a familiar target in former Oregon teammate Troy Franklin. Despite any optimistic projections for the Broncos' 2024 season, the reality is that they are in a rebuilding phase. They have no realistic shot at an AFC West title or a playoff berth.
Sutton is under contract through 2025, but his dissatisfaction with his current deal makes a trade plausible. As the summer progresses, teams interested in Sutton might offer a more attractive deal. His presence would be transformative for Young, providing a dynamic target capable of exploiting defenses with deep routes and high-point catches. Additionally, Sutton's ability to draw defenders would create opportunities for Diontae Johnson and other receivers. Trading for Sutton could involve leveraging draft capital or a promising young player. However, his immediate impact on the Panthers would be substantial.
Dawson Knox, TE
Dawson Knox had strong performances in 2021 and 2022. He neared 50 catches and exceeded 500 receiving yards each season, with 15 touchdowns over that period. However, with Dalton Kincaid's rise at tight end last season, Knox's role diminished significantly. His snap count dropped by 20 percent. This resulted in just 22 receptions for 186 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games.
Despite this reduced role, Knox would be a top-tier tight end for many NFL teams. This is particularly true for those with playoff aspirations in 2024. After restructuring his contract, Knox's cap hit is a manageable $7.7 million for 2024, though it jumps to over $14 million in 2025. This indicates that 2024 could be his final season with the Bills.
Knox’s versatility in lining up at multiple positions and creating mismatches would bring a new element to the Panthers' offense. Developing chemistry with Young could lead to a productive, long-term partnership. Moreover, Knox’s red-zone presence would greatly improve the Panthers' scoring efficiency. That was an area of struggle during the 2023 season. Acquiring Knox would likely require a high draft pick and a role player. However, the immediate and future benefits make this investment worthwhile.
Tremaine Edmunds, LB
Just a year ago, the Chicago Bears signed linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to a four-year, $72 million deal. That positioned him as the leader of their defense. In 2024, Edmunds will be working under defensive coordinator Eric Washington, who coached him in Buffalo.
However, Edmunds' performance last season didn’t live up to his $18 million salary. He was outshone by TJ Edwards and struggled uncharacteristically in coverage. Sure, Jack Sanborn may not have Edmunds' reputation or salary. However, he has proven effective when given the opportunity. Edwards has also demonstrated the leadership qualities the Bears sought in Edmunds. Trading Edmunds would free up $20 million in cap space for the Bears.
Edmunds' quick play diagnosis and sideline-to-sideline range would significantly enhance the Panthers' defense. Teaming him with Shaq Thompson would create a formidable linebacker duo. Additionally, Edmunds' youth and potential for growth make him a valuable long-term asset. The Panthers could structure a trade involving draft picks and possibly a defensive player to acquire Edmunds, whose impact on the team would be immediate and profound.
Looking Ahead
For the Carolina Panthers, the 2024 season holds immense promise. However, realizing that potential requires strategic moves to address key roster gaps. Trading for Courtland Sutton, Dawson Knox, and Tremaine Edmunds would provide the Panthers with veteran leadership, offensive firepower, and defensive prowess. These acquisitions would not only fill immediate needs but also position the team for sustained success in the years to come. As the Panthers gear up for the offseason, these trade targets should be at the top of their list, offering a clear path to transforming their promising roster into a powerhouse capable of making a deep playoff run.
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