With the Panthers sitting at 1-6 and focused on rebuilding, moving Johnson—who leads the team with 30 catches for 357 yards and three touchdowns—could help stockpile much-needed draft picks after last year’s costly trade for Bryce Young.
Johnson is on an expiring contract and has acknowledged the rumors, stating, “Whatever happens, happens. It’s a business.”
Diontae Johnson
— Joe Orrico (@NoExpertFF) October 23, 2024
Ranked 3rd amongst all WRs in targets Weeks 3-6.
Panthers had a down game at WAS in Week 7.
Johnson still projects to see 9+ targets per game ROS.
11/13 WRs who hit that mark in 2023 finish Top 13 at the position for fantasy football. pic.twitter.com/uI9Jlu5zof
Three teams have surfaced as potential landing spots: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Commanders.
Tampa Bay, reeling from injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, urgently needs receiver help, with Johnson potentially slotting in as a WR1 to boost Baker Mayfield’s resurgent season.
Meanwhile, the Chargers, struggling offensively after parting ways with Mike Williams and Keenan Allen, could use Johnson’s playmaking ability to revitalize Justin Herbert’s passing game.
In Washington, Johnson would provide rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels with a reliable, Pro Bowl-caliber target, accelerating the Commanders’ surprising progress in their rebuild.
#Panthers WR Diontae Johnson watched Wednesday’s #NFL practice in street clothes … pic.twitter.com/pGa0RxY1E0
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) October 23, 2024
Any deal for Johnson is expected to involve a mid-round pick, possibly conditional based on performance.
With the Panthers keen to kickstart a youth movement, general manager Dan Morgan could look to maximize Johnson’s value and set up a more sustainable future.
For contenders, Johnson represents a chance to add a proven weapon and make a playoff push, making him one of the most intriguing trade targets at the deadline.
Photo Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
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