NFL Rumors: Panthers Could Make Sense For Two-Time Pro Bowler

The Carolina Panthers have work to do, and one department that needs serious addressing is the quarterback position.

They pinned their hopes on Sam Darnold, but it was clear that the 24-year-old play-caller is still a bit rough around the edges.

Proof of that was Darnold’s performance against the New Orleans Saints, raising questions on whether the USC star is the starting quarterback that Carolina needs moving forward.

Hence, a plausible move by Carolina is to start looking at available free agent quarterbacks in 2022.

Their choices are limited, but one name that could make sense is Kirk Cousins.

However, getting the 33-year-old from the Minnesota Vikings will not be easy. The two-time Pro Bowler has one year remaining in his $66 million contract.

The only way the Panthers can get their hands on Cousins is if they manage to create some salary space.

As things stand now, the Panthers only have about $20 million to spare.

But as explained by Michael Rand of the Star Tribune, Carolina can get something done only if they can find a way to create more room.

“They have about $20 million to play with. But some things they can do to get more room. And if the Vikings were to trade Kirk Cousins, they can take on some more. He’s got that $45 million cap hit. $35 million would go out to the trading team. $10 million stays with the Vikings, but you could play with those numbers,” Rand stated.

Cousins is coming off a good season, having thrown 4,221 yards and 33 touchdowns with just seven interceptions.

However, that has not translated into a good showing by the Vikings who could be better off exploring other quarterbacks that make more financial sense.

A future pick could help facilitate a trade for Cousins. But Carolina has already given away their selections in the second, third and fourth rounds of the upcoming draft due to the Darnold and CJ Henderson trades last season, the Panthers Wire pointed out.

Hence, it will be interesting what the Panthers can offer to convince the Vikings– with the assumption that Cousins is something that they have in mind.