Deshaun Watson Trade Rumors: Panthers Informed They Won't Be Acquiring QB

Like the Cleveland Browns, the Carolina Panthers have reportedly been informed that they are out of the running for quarterback Deshaun Watson, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. 

The New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons are the reported finalists for the veteran signal-caller.

Trade interest in the Houston Texans' Watson has increased over the past week after a grand jury declined to indict him following 10 criminal complaints alleging sexual assault and misconduct. Watson is still the subject of 22 civil cases and a possible NFL suspension under the league's personal conduct policy.

The Panthers had been linked to Watson since before last season as they sought an upgrade at quarterback. In April, Carolina acquired Sam Darnold in a trade with the New York Jets.

That hasn't panned out, as the 24-year-old completed just 59.9 percent of his passes for 2,527 yards and nine touchdowns against 13 interceptions in 12 games.

With the Panthers out of contention for Watson, his most likely destination will be the division rival Saints or Falcons. New Orleans turned to Jameis Winston last year after Drew Brees retired, but Winston tore his ACL in Week 8.

The Saints also started Taysom Hill, Trevor Siemian and Ian Book, but they finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season.

The Falcons' quarterback need isn't as pressing with Matt Ryan under contract through the 2023 season. Ryan hasn't been as effective in recent seasons, however, and Atlanta needs to start preparing for the future.

It's unclear which team Watson prefers, but he did reportedly have a second meeting with the Saints, according to NewOrleans.Football's Nick Underhill.

Pro Football Network’s Aaron Wilson reported the Clemson product will take the weekend to decide.