This Patriots-Panthers Curtis Samuel Trade Could Be a Great Use of New England's Stockpiled Picks

The Carolina Panthers have made extensive changes this offseason. The firing of head coach Ron Rivera set the stage for a mass exodus of key veterans like Greg Olsen, Cam Newton, and Luke Keuchly (retirement).

Now, with the second and third rounds of the NFL Draft set to get underway on Friday night, Carolina could be looking to unload another player. Per insider Ian Rapoport, the Panthers have received "consistent" calls on wide receiver Curtis Samuel.

If the New England Patriots aren't one of these teams, well, then nothing would make sense anymore.

New England once again showed its desperation for WR help by signing former Jacksonville Jaguars talent Marqise Lee, who was released earlier this week after six seasons with the organization.

Samuel wouldn't solve all of the Patriots' issues, but he's miles better than what the team currently has on its roster behind Julian Edelman. Throw in the possibility of a reunion with one Cam Newton and this trade becomes even more of a no-brainer for Bill Belichick, who has FIVE picks to work with on Day 2, including four from No. 71-100.

Even though it's yet to be unleashed at its full capacity, the 23-year-old's potential is evident. However, New England could still snag him on the cheap. Carolina should demand nothing more than two draft picks in return for Samuel -- something like a third-rounder and one of the Patriots' four sixth-rounders could work.

Samuel managed to set career highs in targets (105), receptions (54), yards (627) and touchdowns (seven) in 2019 despite working with below average quarterback play. His speed and elusiveness would be a welcomed addition to a New England side that lacks those attributes.

The Panthers, on the other hand, would accumulate more draft capital to boost their rebuilding efforts. They'll need as many picks as possible to make up for passing on Isaiah Simmons at No. 7 overall.