The Carolina Panthers might be a team to watch out for in terms of the NFL trade deadline on Nov 5. The team has struggled mightily in 2024, posting a 1-5 record through six weeks.
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Bryce Young was benched after two weeks, and many questioned the move considering that Young cannot shoulder the entire blame of the team struggling. Veteran Andy Dalton took over starting duties after Young was benched.
To add to the presumed strange moves the Panthers have been making, the team is reportedly releasing veteran cornerback Troy Hill.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, As the Panthers go younger, source says they’re releasing veteran CB Troy Hill. It’s a move that makes sense for both sides, as an experienced defender becomes available.”
Rapoport has indicated a source reported that Hill is set to be released by the team. This is odd considering the cornerback is still a proven veteran, who will now presumably head to a new team that needs secondary help.
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Hill is a starting caliber corner, and there are likely to be many suitors once the news of his release is confirmed. The Los Angeles Rams might give Hill a call considering their current secondary woes and Hill having played with the team for six seasons.
Through six games, Hill has secured 32 total tackles and one pass defended. The issue could be the coverage issues that Hill is currently having. So far, opposing quarterbacks are posting an 88.2 completion percentage and 119.4 passer rating.
Despite these numbers right now, Hill is a very experienced defender. He has played for the aforementioned Rams, Cincinnati Bengals, and Panthers.
Hill’s most successful season was in 2020 when he pulled down three interceptions, two of those being returned for touchdowns.
There have been tons of injuries around the league, and Hill is likely to land with a new team soon after his official release. The New Orleans Saints are also an immediate option as star cornerback Paulson Adebo suffered a broken femur in his right leg, and has undergone season-ending surgery.
Considering the Panthers are 1-5 on the season and are releasing Hill, they might be settling into the idea of preparing for 2025 by altering their current roster. As stated, the trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Panthers might be a team to watch in terms of trading valuable players for much-needed draft capital.
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