PFT: League source predicts Saints and Panthers to be sanctioned over Tommy Stevens draft negotiations

the relevant part - from tripp's article

It became my project," said Payton, who said the Saints first offered to match Carolina's offer (a $15,000 signing bonus and $30,000 of Stevens' salary guaranteed).

Then Payton said the Saints tried upping the offer to $144,000 of the salary guaranteed. But Stevens and agent Buddy Baker didn't budge because Stevens wanted to honor his commitment to Carolina.

so that it's abundantly clear- Carolina is the original sinner here