Earlier this week, the Panthers waived offensive lineman Caleb Benenoch after he got chewed out by John Matsko at practice. No corresponding move was announced at the time, which means the team has an open spot on the 53-man roster. Coach Ron Rivera says the Panthers won’t be filling that spot until next week, per Joe Person at the Athletic.
Commence the speculation.
It’s possible Carolina will only look to replace Benenoch with another backup offensive lineman. Given the timing involved though, there’s a chance they could have their eyes on a bigger prize.
The NFL’s trade deadline happens next Tuesday. It’s already been an active market, with the Patriots and 49ers both making moves for wide receivers. New England gave up a second-round draft pick for Mohamed Sanu and San Francisco gave up a few for Emmanuel Sanders.
The Panthers are also reported to be in the market for a wide receiver, per Adam Schefter at ESPN.
With Sanu and Sanders off the board, there are only a few alluring names that could possibly be on the trading block.
Stefon Diggs would be an ideal addition for Carolina right now, but it seems the Vikings do not intend to trade him and things have cooled down on this front in general since Diggs got more involved in Minnesota’s offense and Kirk Cousins remembered how to play quarterback.
The only other wide receiver that’s worth giving up significant resources for is A.J. Green of the Bengals. He’s been out this season with an ankle injury but is expected to return soon.
Trading for Green might not quite put Carolina over the top in a competitive conference. It would give them another weapon where they need it most, though. A more robust passing offense (ideally with a healthy Cam Newton leading it), combined with a strong running game and an elite defense – that might just turn these Panthers into Super Bowl contenders.
