Deshaun Watson 'Intrigued' By Panthers

The Dolphins and Jets have the most to offer the Texans in exchange for Deshaun Watson, if Houston ever decides to take back a farm for him. Yet the Panthers are hanging around as a topic in the NFL insider club.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that there is mutual interest between Watson and the Panthers.

“The Carolina Panthers, they are inclined to big-game hunt for Deshaun Watson, if he’s available,” Fowler said. “Nothing yet, but I’m told Watson would at least be intrigued by the option of Carolina. A good, nice, young team, aggressive owner, close to his hometown of Gainesville, Georgia. They’ll certainly look at that."

The second line is key, Watson must waive his no-trade clause before Houston can trade him.

Carolina cannot match the Jets and Dolphins' 2021 draft capital, both of which have top three picks and doubles in the first round. However, should the Texans hold onto Watson then trade him after the 2021 draft, all of a sudden, the Panthers can even the playing field. Sure, that'd be foolish on the Texans' part, so expect Houston to do it.

Furthermore, Carolina can sell Houston on trading Watson out of the AFC for years to come.

For Watson, the Dolphins should top his wishlist with distance. Miami has a win-now roster with a defense that takes a backseat to no one.

He should forget about the Jets. The idea is puzzling. Yes, it is New York — but it's also a brutal roster. Watson saw firsthand what Patrick Mahomes can do with a talented roster. Does he want to keep just seeing it?

Assuming the 49ers are not a viable option, the Panthers should be Watson's No. 2. Though adding Watson doesn't make Carolina a Super Bowl team next season, it's a playoff roster well-positioned for the future.