Panthers 'Still Lurking' in DeAndre Hopkins Sweepstakes

Could Carolina land the veteran wide receiver?

Carolina Panthers GM Scott Fitterer did a complete overhaul of the wide receiver room this offseason, signing veterans Adam Thielen, DJ Chark, and Damiere Byrd while taking Jonathan Mingo in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

But there's more work to be done. 

Although Carolina's biggest needs are on the other side of the ball (corner depth and another pass rusher) they could still use some help at receiver. Despite all of the additions, they still lack a true No. 1, go-to target.

Fortunately for the Panthers, there is still a pretty accomplished receiver on the market that fits that description - DeAndre Hopkins.

After failing to find a trade partner, the Arizona Cardinals decided to release Hopkins, who is entering his age 31 season. He's dealt with some hamstring and knee issues over the past two years but when he's been on the field, he remains extremely productive.

Having a big target like Hopkins will open the middle up for Thielen and tight end Hayden Hurst and allow for some explosive downfield plays to DJ Chark on the other side. 

During a radio appearance on ESPN, NFL insider Sal Paolantonio stated that the Panthers "are lurking" for Hopkins.

While the New England Patriots sound like the leaders, the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers are still lurking on DeAndre Hopkins, per Sal Paolantonio on ESPN Radio.

— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) June 27, 2023

The Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots have been the two teams linked to Hopkins the most but with the second-most cap space in the NFL, the Panthers may be willing to submit a substantial offer to the Central, South Carolina native.

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