Panthers, Saints Eyeing First-Round Bust Ahead of Free Agency

On By Littum

Jacksonville Jaguars franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence is unlikely to play in Week 10, leaving the starting job open for former first-round pick Mac Jones. A member of the 2021 quarterback draft class, Jones began his career on a promising note with the New England Patriots. Starting and appearing in all 17 games, the Alabama product went 10-7 while completing 67.6% of his passes for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions while guiding the team to their first postseason appearance in the post- Brady Era.

Unfortunately, the wheels quickly fell off the wagon as Jones crashed and burned over the next two seasons. After securing the third overall pick and firing head coach Bill BelichickNew England traded Jones to the Jaguars and embraced the Drake Maye era. Set to be a free agent at the end of the season, Jones could earn work as a bridge quarterback next year if he makes the most of his opportunity with the Jacksonville Jaguars. If he plays well, teams like the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints could target him in 2025.

Mac Jones Could Turn Starting Option For Panthers, Saints Job

With the 2024 season effectively over, the Carolina Panthers could effectively rebuild their quarterback room from scratch in 2025. Former first overall pick Bryce Young has shown signs of life since returning from his early season benching, but the Alabama product will likely not be back in 2024. If Dave Canales was willing to give up on him after two starts, then it’s hard to imagine that a small handful of adequate performances will change his mind. The Panthers will likely trade him to the highest bidder and select a quarterback early in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Maybe the Panthers finally land their long-awaited heir to Cam Newton, but they should have a plan B if the rookie isn’t ready to start from Day 1. Andy Dalton is ideal for this job, but the longtime veteran could leave at greener pastures. More teams will be in the quarterback market, and the Panthers don’t have as much cap space next year. If Mac Jones makes the most of his starting opportunity with the Jaguars, he might be able to hold down the fort in Carolina while someone like Miami’s Cam Ward adjusts to NFL life, as a mock draft suggests.

Life without Derek Carr

After years of kicking the can down the road, the Dennis Allen firing could signal a long-awaited rebuild in New Orleans. After trying to tread water in the post-Brees Era, the Saints realize it’s time to tear it all down and start over, but year after year of restructuring means the team won’t be competitive in 2025. Derek Carr isn’t the worst quarterback in the league, but the 34-year-old isn’t a good fit for a rebuilding club. New Orleans can save some cap space with a trade and look to build around a younger quarterback who isn’t fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler.

Whoever the Saints pick in next year’s draft probably shouldn’t start in Week 1. The offensive line is a disaster, and star receiver Chris Olave may not return in 2025. Someone has to hold down the starting job while General Manager Mickey Loomis builds a competitive roster , and Mac Jones may be the sacrificial lamb. Jones endured an abysmal supporting role in New England, so he should be able to survive a bit in the Big Easy.


Main photo: Corey Perrine – USA Today Sports