Panthers bring in Bridgewater
By now, you know the Panthers are signing former Saints QB Teddy Bridgewater to a three-year, $63 million deal and Cam Newton is now on the trade block. While we don’t like the way Newton has been treated and believe this is a step down at the most important position on the field, Bridgewater is an excellent fit and they’re getting him at a bargain price compared to what extending Newton would have cost.
Carolina is also signing Seth Roberts, who brings some badly-needed size and depth to the wide receiver corps.
However, the major dynamic at work here is similar to Atlanta’s and much worse. Already, they’ve seen several important defensive players sign elsewhere. That includes Mario Addison and Vernon Butler (Bills), Bruce Irvin (Seahawks), James Bradberry (Giants) and Gerald McCoy (Cowboys). In a surprising move, strong safety Eric Reid has also been released and will likely be signing elsewhere soon.
To help make up for these exits, the Panthers are bringing in a handful of low-cost free agents, including defensive end Stephen Weatherly, safety Juston Burris and guard John Miller. Apparently the plan is to start Tre Boston (who’s signed a three-year extension) and Burris at safety this year. That’s a pretty big gamble for Matt Rhule, who will likely have to make do with several backups having to start on both sides of the ball.
Overall, it’s clear that the Panthers’ roster has been downgraded. Fans should try to be patient and remember these things take time. Things should look up in 2021 when the rebuild begins to take shape.
[lawrence-related id=619656]
[vertical-gallery id=619576]