This Panthers vs. 49ers matchup just got even more interesting. According to a report by Adam Schefter at ESPN, the Niners have traded for Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and they plan to play him on Sunday against Carolina.
Sanders has been a popular name connected to the Panthers this week after a report came out (also from Schefter) that they’re one of several teams in the market for a wide receiver ahead of next week’s trade deadline.
There are still other good candidates worth trading for (A.J. Green chief among them), but taking Sanders off the board limits Carolina’s options. It also gives Jimmy Garoppolo another passing weapon, which he sorely needed. Tight end George Kittle has been his only legitimate receiving threat for a while. He leads the team with 376 receiving yards this year. Marquise Goodwin ranks second with just 181.
Meanwhile, Sanders has posted 30 catches, 367 receiving yards and two touchdowns despite having to work with zombie Joe Flacco.
It will be interesting to see who the Panthers assign to Sanders. James Bradberry is their best cover corner by far, but they should also be getting a healthy Donte Jackson back in the lineup.
