ClutchPoints
The Carolina Panthers are entering a pivotal offseason—one that could shape the franchise’s direction for years to come. After another frustrating campaign, the team is in desperate need of solutions, particularly on offense. Despite significant investment in young quarterback Bryce Young, his development has been hampered by an underwhelming supporting cast. If Carolina hopes to take a meaningful step forward in 2025, they must prioritize upgrading their offensive weapons.
The Panthers’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster, filled with early setbacks and late-season intrigue. 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young struggled mightily out of the gate and was even benched at one point. That fueled speculation about his long-term future in Carolina. There was chatter about whether the team should cut ties with him altogether. However, when given another opportunity down the stretch, Young showed noticeable improvement. That provided at least some hope for the future. Sure, he has yet to fully cement himself as the franchise cornerstone. Still, the Panthers enter this offseason with clarity at quarterback. That allows them to shift focus to other pressing needs—particularly upgrading the offense around Young—after finishing with a disappointing 5-12 record.
Here we’ll try to identify the perfect trade that the Carolina Panthers must try to complete in the 2025 NFL offseason.
If there’s one area where the Panthers must be aggressive this offseason, it’s securing a true No. 1 wide receiver for Young. Yes, Young likely showed enough promise in the second half of the 2024 season to retain his starting role. That said, his position isn’t guaranteed beyond next year. He must prove he can build on his late-season progress. The best way to set him up for success is by significantly upgrading his supporting cast.
Right now, Carolina’s receiving corps is far from ideal. Adam Thielen, who turns 35 before the 2025 season, remains their most reliable pass-catcher. That situation isn’t sustainable for a team trying to develop a young quarterback. The Panthers need a dynamic playmaker, and one name stands out as a prime trade candidate: Garrett Wilson of the New York Jets. He is still on his rookie contract. This makes him financially viablefor a team that doesn’t have an abundance of salary cap space. Trading for a young, proven receiver and securing him on a long-term extension would be a smart investment for Carolina’s future.
Garrett Wilson fits the kind of offensive weapon that the Panthers need in 2025. The 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year has already cemented himself as one of the most talented young wide receivers in the league. Over his first three seasons, Wilson has showcased elite route-running skills, strong hands, and the ability to make contested catches. These are traits Carolina’s passing game has sorely lacked.
His uncertain status with the Jets only adds to the intrigue. With Aaron Rodgers returning from injury, New York is in full win-now mode and may...
