Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Panthers could explore Andy Dalton trade if QB wants

By Zachary Cariola | Last updated Feb 27, 2026 10:22 AM ET

The Carolina Panthers have an asset in quarterback Andy Dalton, who could emerge as a solid trade candidate for a team needing a backup. However, according to Panthers general manager Dan Morgan, any potential move would ultimately depend on Dalton’s interest in the situation.

"Andy's a really good player, and he's a great guy, great culture fit for us," Morgan told "The Pat McAfee Show" on Thursday, via the team’s official website. "I haven't talked to any teams about a trade, but I think if the possibility did come up that I would talk to Andy, give him that option and let him explore a trade."

Dalton, a 15-year veteran, could potentially net the Panthers a Day 3 pick — probably in the sixth or seventh rounds. Carolina has needs on defense and at wide receiver.

As Bryce Young's backup, Dalton didn’t do much in 2025, appearing in four games and throwing for 293 yards and a touchdown. In 13 games over three seasons with the Panthers, Dalton has thrown for 1,643 yards — far less than in his 2022 season as a starter with the New Orleans Saints (2,871 yards in 14 games).

Panthers need help on defense and at WR

The Panthers' offense has a good foundation with quarterback Young, running back Rico Dowdle and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan as the focal points. However, the Panthers' offense overall was fifth worst in the NFL (27th, 295.6 yards per game).

The defense was better, ranking 16th (327.2 yards per game), but it was terrible at getting after quarterbacks, ranking fourth worst in sacks (30). The Panthers' sack leaders, linebacker Nic Scourton (five) and defensive end Derrick Brown (five), had a third of the team's total sacks.

The Panthers must upgrade on offense and defense by adding a solid No. 2 receiver to pair with McMillan (1,014 yards receiving, seven TD catches in 2025), as receivers Jalen Coker (394 yards, three touchdowns) and Xavier Legette (363 yards, three touchdowns) didn’t get the job done.

But the potential return in a trade for Dalton won't reap a huge reward.

Zachary Cariola

My name is Zachary Cariola and I have been a sports fan for as long as I can remember. My areas of expertise are MLB, NBA, and NFL. When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my family and learning history.

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