For Denver, this trade makes too much sense. After all, incumbent starting QB Drew Lock has not progressed much so far in his young NFL career and needed someone to push him for the starting gig. Bridgewater will do just that for the Broncos. If it does not pan out, it is still a worthwhile gamble for Denver (as Carolina is paying most of Bridgewater's guaranteed bonuses).

After the Panthers acquired Sam Darnold from the New York Jets, the writing was on the wall for a Bridgewater trade. Therefore, it is no surprise that Carolina was able to move him just prior to the 2021 NFL Draft. They wound up paying a lot of Bridgewater's guarantees to get rid of him, and only received back a sixth-rounder. However, they can now finally move on.

Bridgewater's status is much better as a Bronco than had he remained a Panther, so his fantasy stock is on the rise yet again. As for Lock, his value continues to dip. In fact, it could disappear altogether if Denver chooses a quarterback early in this week's draft. The clear winner in this deal is Darnold, although Carolina might still be interested in a QB early on themselves.