Panthers' chase for prized free agent might be over before it begins

Asante Samuel Jr. | Charles LeClaire-Imagn ImagesThe Carolina Panthers caused a stir among their fan base when a report revealed that they welcomed free-agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. for a visit on Wednesday. General manager Dan Morgan stood pat at the 2025 trade deadline, but this was a clear sign that he is willing to make the improvements needed if the right opportunities present themselves.

However, the Panthers' chase for Samuel might be over before it begins.

Samuel got the all-clear to resume football activities after finally recovering from spinal fusion surgery. He enjoyed three outstanding campaigns with the Los Angeles Chargers before a grave health concern limited him to just…