Reports: Inside Touted Trade Possibility Should Put Carolina Panthers On High Alert
This would be great news for Bryce Young.
Dan Morgan is not resting on his laurels this offseason. The new general manager is working diligently to put the Carolina Panthers in a better position. Although it’s been a challenging process, the roster is looking significantly improved, aside from a few areas that could pose challenges.
The main goal during this first year of another major rebuild has been to raise standards and enhance competition. Players are approaching their roles with increased urgency, as few seem to be secure in their positions. This competitive environment is pushing everyone to improve as the Panthers aim to regain credibility in 2024.
Morgan is taking an aggressive approach, exploring all options to help this once-prominent franchise regain its footing. The Panthers have already made one trade, acquiring veteran cornerback Mike Jackson, and more moves could be on the horizon if the former linebacker believes they can benefit from head coach Dave Canales’ leadership.
Potential Reunion for Panthers
Although the wide receiver position is currently considered the team’s strongest area based on Canales’ recent remarks, adding another receiver isn’t entirely off the table. NFL insider Jordan Schultz reports that former second-round pick John Metchie III is attracting interest from several teams and could be available if the Houston Texans are open to trade discussions.
“Multiple teams have reached out to the Texans to inquire about WR John Metchie III due to the abundance of receivers on their roster. It’s uncertain whether Houston is willing to part with him, but several teams are monitoring the situation. The former Alabama standout had 10 receptions for 100 yards and a touchdown in the preseason.”
Carolina has a solid group of wide receivers. However, they are reportedly looking to trade Terrace Marshall Jr. after an impressive offseason from the LSU standout. Reuniting quarterback Bryce Young with one of his key targets from Alabama would certainly have its advantages.
In 2021, the year Young won the Heisman Trophy, Metchie recorded 96 receptions for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns. Unfortunately, his NFL career has faced challenges after he was diagnosed with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia. Fortunately, he is recovering well and starting to return to form.
The Texans now have a wealth of options at receiver following their trade for Stefon Diggs. General manager Nick Caserio faces a tough decision since he can’t keep them all without sacrificing depth in other positions. As a result, Metchie could be seen as expendable if a fitting offer comes in.
For the Panthers, acquiring Metchie could be viewed as a luxury given their more pressing needs. However, despite their potential, only Adam Thielen and Diontae Johnson have proven production in the NFL. Taking a chance on Metchie, especially with his pre-existing chemistry with Young, could be a smart move.
Carolina’s 53-man roster is likely to change quickly after its initial announcement, with transactions happening frequently across the league. If Morgan believes that a move aligns with his business-first strategy, he won’t hesitate to make it.
Metchie represents a high-risk, high-reward trade option, and it’s clear that Young would fully support such a decision.