Panthers Linked to Linebacker Trade Following Bengals' Extensions

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase to four-year extensions, locking in a significant portion of their salary cap for the future. This financial commitment may force the Bengals to make cuts elsewhere, potentially impacting their defense, with linebacker Germaine Pratt being mentioned as a trade candidate, especially attractive to the Carolina Panthers. Meanwhile, the Panthers have been active in free agency, signing players like Jaycee Horn and Tershawn Wharton to strengthen their roster as they aim to compete in the NFC South. Additionally, former Panthers receiver Velus Jones Jr. has signed with the New Orleans Saints, marking his third team in four years as he seeks to revitalize his career. The Panthers' recent moves indicate their strategy to move past underperforming players and bolster their lineup for the upcoming season. With the Saints' struggles and the Bengals' financial decisions, the dynamics within the NFC South could shift dramatically this offseason.