The Carolina Panthers have been hesitant to participate in the current NFL trend of trading star receivers, but they have both the time and motivation to consider it. The Washington Commanders, along with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, certainly have a need for additional talent.
Terry McLaurin, the Commanders’ top receiver in his sixth year, has consistently surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the past four seasons and was named a Pro Bowler in 2022. He is on track to achieve the 1,000-yard milestone again this season while catching passes from Daniels.
However, Daniels lacks support outside of McLaurin. His next best targets are tight end Zack Ertz, with 21 receptions, and running back Austin Ekeler, who has 15 catches. Olamide Zaccheaus, standing at 5-foot-8, is also tied with Ekeler for 15 receptions.
The Commanders are currently 4-2 and have had a strong start, but to make a serious push for the playoffs, they need to bolster their roster, especially at the skill positions. With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 5, the Panthers could be a viable trade partner.
Carolina, sitting at 1-5 in the NFC standings and with Andy Dalton stepping in for quarterback Bryce Young, appears to be heading nowhere. The Panthers might consider trading Diontae Johnson, their key offseason acquisition from the Steelers, in exchange for draft picks.
Carolina could likely aim for at least a third-round pick for Johnson, similar to the trades of Davante Adams and Amari Cooper. He is projected to finish the season with 963 receiving yards, which could increase in Washington’s offense.
Johnson is in the second year of a two-year, $37 million contract and will be a free agent after this season.
In Bleacher Report’s weekly “NFL Trade Big Board,” Johnson ranks as the No. 10 trade target, with the Commanders identified as a “potential suitor.”
“The Commanders, who lack a dependable No. 2 receiver alongside Terry McLaurin, should be interested. Rookie Jayden Daniels could provide Johnson with what he currently lacks in Carolina—a quarterback capable of making big plays,” the article pointed out.
