Former Washington Football Team Quarterback Dwayne Haskins will visit the Panthers on Monday. Given the state of the position, the Panthers’ curiosity about Haskins isn’t surprising. However, it doesn’t mean the interest that the team may have in the embattled quarterback isn’t questionable.
What transpired in Washington is, at this point, well documented. Haskins’ unprofessionalism dropped him on WFT’s depth chart and eventually off the team. The Panthers know this, but they are meeting with Haskins regardless. So, should the Panthers sign Haskins? Here are some Pros and Cons to consider.
Different Environment. Different Results
Potential is a funny concept when it comes to sports. You see a player with phenomenal ability or an attribute and it pulls you in. Before you know it, you are enamored with that one thing or more that pulls you in to the point that you are willing to argue down anyone who doesn’t believe in this player like you do. Sometimes the belief in that player pays off, and maybe Haskins could be another example of such.
He has a Hall Of Famer as a precedent.
Fans remember legendary Vikings receiver Cris Carter. Not many remember hot mess Philadelphia Eagles flameout Cris Carter. As an Eagle, Carter put up numbers. However he was out of control off the field. Carter abused drugs and alcohol. Carter managed to hide his addiction from the public but not the team. In 1990, then Eagles coach, the late Buddy Ryan decided he had enough. Carter was out in Philly after three seasons.
Carter then sobers up, Minnesota gives him a second chance and he goes on to have a Hall of Fame career. If Carter, who was a functioning addict, could change the trajectory of his career, then why couldn’t Haskins?
Despite underperforming in Washington, Haskins still has a cannon for an arm. He is a pocket passer who can throw from various angles. If given another opportunity, he could emerge in Carolina as a solid backup or even compete as a starter. Why? because there is a reason to believe that Haskins, after being embarrassed and humbled will not make the same mistake twice. That reason? the possibility of never getting another shot in the league again.
The Potential Isn’t Worth The Hassle
On the other hand, Haskins could come to Charlotte and it could be worse; he doesn’t learn anything and could continue the partying and lack of discipline. And since Charlotte is a small market, imagine the wall to wall negative coverage the Panthers would receive. It would be unacceptable if Haskins comes to the Panthers and improves his play, but continues to be a mess off the field. It would be reckless and irresponsible if Haskins continues his bad play and his off field habits. Despite his strengths, it’s not like Haskins’ play backed up his lifestyle. In his 13 starts, Haskins completed 60 percent of his passes, thrown 12 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Haskins also fumbled the ball 12 times. Granted, there is a need to solidify at quarterback, but the Panthers have to consider if taking a chance on a project like Haskins’ is really worth it.
What do you guys think? Should the Panthers take a gamble on Dwayne Haskins? Let us know on twitter and in the comments.
