NFL rumors: Panthers helping Bryce, Dalvin Cook update, Eagle shows Cowboys love

NFL Rumors: Panthers a dark horse to land DeAndre Hopkins for Bryce Young

Every day in the NFL offseason seems to hold a new update on DeAndre Hopkins, even if some of the new information conflicts with old information. But now there is an interesting wrinkle being thrown into the mix for the wide receiver who is one of the coveted commodities still available in free agency.

The New England Patriots are reportedly the favorite to land the 31-year-old still, while the Tennessee Titans also reportedly have an offer out. Meanwhile, there are conflicting reports regarding how much the Cleveland Browns are involved in a potential reunion with Deshaun Watson, if they are at all.

However, NFL insider Sal Paolantonio reported on Tuesday while appearing on ESPN Radio that a dark horse team is in the mix: the Carolina Panthers.

After moving up to draft their future franchise quarterback, Bryce Young, first overall, the Panthers receiving corps is fine, but still leaves something to be desired. The top five in the group appear to be Terrace Marshall Jr., DJ Chark, Adam Thielen, rookie Jonathan Mingo, and Laviska Shenault Jr. There’s talent there but, with DJ Moore in Chicago, there isn’t a known game-changer in that group.

Hopkins, however, could be that and could be a real asset for Young in his early development. More importantly, the Panthers have plenty of cap space to land the wideout on a player-friendly contract, which could be huge for their chances of landing him. And it’s also worth mentioning that, with another offensive upgrade, Carolina could be far more competitive than expected if Young can live up to the hype immediately.

Again, the Pats are the likely landing spot when it’s all said and done. But keep an eye on the Panthers. They make sense for DeAndre Hopkins, and apparently there’s a little something brewing there too.