The Carolina Panthers may pursue veteran quarterback Cooper Rush in trade talks midseason if new starter Andy Dalton doesn’t work out. According to one source, they believe the Cowboys could explore trading one of their quarterbacks and that may be Rush. It’s been a downhill spiral for the Panthers already heading into week three where potential franchiser Bryce Young couldn’t lead the team. The Panthers should be a favorite in the trade market at least for the time being until the staff figures out the future of who leads this team after Dalton gets a few starts.
However, no one should expect Dalton to do anything special as the Panthers would probably get lucky to get at least a wildcard spot. Dallas does have Trey Lance behind Dak Prescott as well but Rush has been with the Cowboys for a long time and might be time for him to move on to give Dalton insurance. Rush can play right away and since Lance is more of a project, the Panthers might not want to take a gamble again after seeing Young. He did have multiple teams reaching out to him last season so it shouldn’t be any surprise if he receives new trade interest again.
After going 4-1 in Prescott’s absence, he became a hot commodity in free agency but the Cowboys brought him back on a friendly extension. Dallas probably won’t get much in return for Rush’s services but it begins their build of draft capital. The veteran could be an upgrade over Dalton if he plays the same way he did during his 2022 campaign. Rush notched 1,0151 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions while completing 58% of his passes.
Here are some other potential trade destinations for Rush.
Panthers May Pursue Veteran Quarterback Cooper Rush in Trade Talks
Other Potential Trade Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are losing Tyler Huntley again which leaves a hole behind the comfortability of Lamar Jackson. Baltimore shouldn’t worry about Jackson’s absence but they must build depth in case their franchiser goes down with an injury. They’re already on a 0-2 start and while they shouldn’t panic, it could potentially lead to more disaster. However, they have enough talent like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Derrick Henry but to build a bridge behind Jackson will be useful.
Rush is not getting this team to a Super Bowl or any future aspirations but it gives a potential championship team like the Ravens competitive.
Los Angeles Chargers
It seems unlikely Jim Harbaugh will allow his franchise quarterback to play without a reliable backup. Justin Herbert is coming off an injury but even if he’s 100% healthy, it can always creep back up. Easton Stick hasn’t been able to win a game but they could make a cheap trade for Rush since he’s a winner. They would bring him in only for depth and he might get one last opportunity if Herbert goes down.
Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa’s future is up in the air even though he has no plans to retire. The Dolphins have to carefully assess the situation but they’re considering adding a veteran quarterback. After signing Huntley, the team may explore bringing in more than one quarterback to see who could step up. Rush may find a role for himself as a backup if the Dolphins struggle with Skylar Thompson.
