FanPost

The Trade No One Saw Coming

Jeremy Brevard-US PRESSWIRE

Hey everyone, this is my first post on CSR and I wanted to raise a point that I think has been mentioned off-hand in a couple of threads but never really explored. We've all been waiting for the other shoe to drop in regards to Hardy being tagged and traded, but I really don't think that's going to happen. Hardy is entering his prime years as a killer defensive end. Both sides have already said they're looking to get a long term deal done, so it makes no sense to assume a trade is coming.

The one trade that I could see happening is Smith to another team for some draft picks or a mid-level player and a mid-round pick. While not the popular move, by any means, it seems to make sense when you think about who Gettleman is as a GM. He's the antithesis of Hurney, there's no loyalty to anyone unless they can earn their paycheck. Unfortunately, last year, Smith did not earn his paycheck. He's due 7mil this year and that money would be much better invested in a new, young, dynamic receiving threat.

I'd say the two biggest things to anticipate this off-season are a long term deal with Hardy and Steve Smith potentially being moved to a new team, both would provide some immediate breathing room for working Gettle-magic in free agency.

Don't get me wrong, I desperately want to see Smitty retire in a couple years as a life-long Panther. But, looking at his situation through the cold lense of logic I just don't see things staying static for Smith this year.

What do you guys think? Am I completely off-base or do you think Smitty might be playing in a different uniform in a few months?

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