DeAngelo Williams trade explored by playoff contender, report says

The Panthers could move running back DeAngelo Williams before the trade deadline. (Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

At least one playoff-contending team has explored a trade with the Carolina Panthers about running back DeAngelo Williams, but head coach Ron Rivera said Monday that he does not expect any changes ahead of the trade deadline.

Via The Charlotte Observer's Jonathan Jones:

Running back DeAngelo Williams has been the subject of a potential trade. A team source told the Observer that at least one playoff-contending team has reached out to the Panthers about possibly trading for the back.

Rivera said he has not discussed a Williams trade with anyone and referred questions to Brandon Beane, who has been handling personnel duties since Marty Hurney was fired last week. He declined to discuss the potential of a Williams trade further.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday that the Panthers were "willing to listen" to offers on Williams, who has garnered 61 carries in the Panthers’ six games so far this season for 210 yards.

But Williams' role in the offense has declined since his last 1,000-yard season in 2009.

Schefter reported that the most significant complication to any potential Williams trade would be his contract. His $5.25 million salary this season is fully guaranteed.

The NFL is postponing the trade deadline to Thursday because of Hurricane Sandy.