Scott Fitterer says that Sam Darnold is "in the lead for that job," in reference to the Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback position.

"We want him to take it and run with it," the general manager said. "But we're gonna add a lot of competition to that room. The whole emphasis is to stabilize the quarterback position to play winning football.

"That's what we're working towards."

The Panthers tried to acquire Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans, but the quarterback landed with the Cleveland Browns.

DJ Moore has agreed to a three-year, $61.884 million extension with the Carolina Panthers. 

Moore, 24, now is tied to the Panthers for $73 million over four years, an average of $18.25 million a year that ranks eighth in the NFL at his position.

Moore led the team with a career-high 93 receptions last season for 1,157 yards and four touchdowns.

Deshaun Watson is expected to meet with the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints within the next 48 hours, according to a report.

Watson reportedly wants to meet with teams interested in him before any trade talks progress.

Trade interest in the quarterback heated up last Friday when a grand jury did not indict Watson on any criminal charges related to accusations of misconduct raised by numerous women.

The Carolina Panthers plan to make an "aggressive" trade offer for Deshaun Watson, if the quarterback will waive his no-trade clause to join the team, according to a report.

Carolina wanted to trade for Watson last year, but he wasn't interested in a deal.

The Panthers are reportedly willing to part with any player on their roster other than safety Jeremy Chinn, in addition to draft picks.

A number of teams have called the Carolina Panthers about a possible trade for Christian McCaffrey, according to sources.

Carolina isn't shopping McCaffrey, but they will listen to offers if they include a first-round pick and another player with a high salary-cap number.

McCaffrey, 25, has four years remaining on his contract that was extended last offseason, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.

The Carolina Panthers are expected to be on the hunt for a quarterback this offseason.

They picked up Sam Darnold's fifth-year option, but that isn't expected to limit their search. 

Scot Fitterer told reporters that there is a possibility that the Panthers bring Cam Newton back for next season.

"We're still open to Cam," Fitterer said. "But again, we want to have that conversation with him directly."