Panthers’ Trade Hopes for Brandon Aiyuk Dwindling as Deadline Approaches”
The Panthers have largely focused on bolstering their defense this offseason, a necessity after watching their defensive unit allow the most single-season points in NFL history last year. General manager Dan Morgan has made sure the team addresses glaring defensive weaknesses, but many fans and experts believe the Panthers have overlooked one major need: a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver for young quarterback Bryce Young.
With the team struggling to find a top-tier target, Aiyuk, who has been rumored to be on the trade block, seemed like the perfect fit. The former standout from the 49ers had previously been linked to Carolina but re-signed with San Francisco after a knee injury derailed trade talks last offseason. Now, with the 49ers reportedly trying to clear cap space, many thought Aiyuk might be available once again, but the latest developments paint a different picture.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently revealed a significant obstacle standing in the way of any potential trade. Aiyuk is set to receive a $22.85 million roster bonus on April 1st. If he stays with the 49ers past that date, the chances of a trade become almost nonexistent, and Aiyuk will likely remain in San Francisco for the 2025 season. This bonus creates a hard deadline for any trade talks, and unless something drastic changes, the Panthers’ hopes of landing Aiyuk are nearly extinguished.
While the Panthers have been quiet on the trade market, they are optimistic about their existing receivers. Rookies Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker have shown promise, and veteran Adam Thielen still has productive years ahead of him. Additionally, with the recent signing of running back Rico Dowdle, the team is expected to lean on a stronger rushing attack.
With the draft fast approaching, the Panthers will likely focus on adding another pass-catching weapon in the form of a wide receiver or tight end. Although a marquee trade may have seemed enticing, it appears that the Panthers are committed to a long-term strategy, building through the draft and trusting the process.
As fans grow impatient, hoping for more support for Bryce Young in his critical Year 3, it’s clear that Carolina’s focus this offseason has shifted more toward fortifying the defense. Whether this strategy will pay off is yet to be seen, but for now, the Panthers’ hopes of landing Brandon Aiyuk seem all but over.