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.
Another Year of Struggles
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.
Why A Trade Makes Sense
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.
Why Garrett Wilson Is the Perfect Fit
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 be willing to shake up their roster to acquire immediate-impact players. If Carolina puts together an aggressive trade package, the Jets could be tempted to part ways with Wilson to gain assets that address their short-term needs. This presents the Panthers with a rare chance to land a game-changing receiver without having to wait for a rookie to develop.
Potential Trade Package
In order to bring Wilson to Carolina, the Panthers would need to offer a package that appeals to the Jets’ immediate priorities. A realistic deal could look something like this:
Panthers Receive:
– WR Garrett Wilson
– 2025 seventh-round pick (No. 225 overall)
Jets Receive:
– 2025 second-round pick (No. 57 overall)
– DE A’Shawn Robinson
This is a significant investment, but one Carolina must be willing to make. The team has struggled to draft and develop top-tier receivers. Banking on another young player to emerge isn’t a reliable strategy. Wilson is already a proven difference-maker. Pairing him with Young would give the Panthers an offensive foundation they can build around for years to come.
How Wilson Would Elevate the Panthers’ Offense
Acquiring Wilson would immediately transform Carolina’s offensive attack. His ability to create separation would give Young a go-to target in crucial situations. Defenses would be forced to respect Wilson’s presence. This would open up more opportunities for other playmakers like running back Chuba Hubbard and tight end Tommy Tremble.
Wilson’s deep-threat ability would also help Carolina generate more explosive plays. The Panthers’ passing game in recent seasons has relied too heavily on short throws and checkdowns. This has made it predictable and easy to defend. With Wilson stretching the field, defenses would have to play more honest coverage.
Beyond his on-field impact, trading for Wilson would send a clear message to fans and the locker room that the organization is committed to building around Young. The former No. 1 overall pick has faced significant challenges in his young career. Surrounding him with elite talent is the best way to ensure his success. The Panthers are in a critical window with Young still on his rookie contract. Failing to maximize this period could set the franchise back even further.
Final Thoughts
For too long, the Panthers have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, failing to make the bold moves necessary to elevate the franchise. Trading for Garrett Wilson would be a franchise-altering decision—one that would finally provide them with a clear offensive identity and give Bryce Young the weapons he needs to succeed.
With Wilson in the mix, Carolina could enter 2025 with a revamped offense, a revitalized quarterback, and a legitimate shot at competing in the NFC South. It’s a move they can’t afford to pass up.
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