Panthers fading in Deshaun Watson sweepstakes?

The Panthers have been waiting in line for Deshaun Watson for over a year. Now, they’ve seemingly been jumped by their NFC South rivals in the Saints and Falcons.

The Carolina Panthers have gone 3-9 against the NFC South since head coach Matt Rhule took over. So, would this potential loss move them to 3-10?

According to Pro Football Network’s Aaron Wilson, Deshaun Watson is now expected to waive his no-trade clause in a move to either the New Orleans Saints or the Atlanta Falcons—seemingly spurning the hopes of Carolina.

Additionally, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football—just moments earlier—reported that the Houston Texans quarterback met with the Saints for a second time on Wednesday night. Thursday morning then saw news of New Orleans kicking their ol’ can and, presumably, clearing up additional salary cap space by restructuring the contracts of quarterback Taysom Hill, linebacker DeMario Davis, cornerback Bradley Roby and safety Malcolm Jenkins.

Nothing, of course, is certain until we hear of Watson’s decision or until a trade is officially agreed upon. Nonetheless, this last-minute posturing from the Saints would indicate they’re in a favorable position to land the three-time Pro Bowler.

If so, this’ll go down as the latest—and perhaps most painful—defeat Panthers owner David Tepper has to swallow since purchasing the franchise. The organization has had well-documented interest in acquiring Watson for over a year, a prospect that is now looking more improbable by the hour.

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