The Carolina Panthers are listening to other teams about a potential trade for star running back Christian McCaffrey, although a deal might not be easy to complete, league sources tell ESPN.

The Panthers rebuffed at least two teams' inquiries into trading for McCaffrey last week and will continue to reject overtures that they don't consider to be significant offers, according to sources.

Although the Panthers have been listening, it hardly means they are dealing McCaffrey. If the Panthers do not receive what they feel is a real offer — with a high draft pick or multiple picks — they are adamant that they will hold on to McCaffrey past the NFL's Nov. 1 trade deadline, sources told ESPN.

What makes McCaffrey so attractive to other teams — aside from his talent — is his contractual situation. During the spring, the former Pro Bowler lowered his base salary for the 2022 season to just $1.035 million — meaning any team that acquires him in a trade would have no issues squeezing his contract under their salary cap.