Carolina Panthers: 3 trade targets from the Buffalo Bills

Carolina Panthers trade target: Jerry Hughes (OLB)

The arrival of Mario Addison with the Buffalo Bills has cast doubt over the future of Jerry Hughes. The outside linebacker has two years remaining on his deal. But he faces fierce competition for the starting spot in 2020.

This might work in favor of the Carolina Panthers if they choose to add more reinforcements to their front seven. The team does look particularly strong in this area. But putting Hughes opposite Shaq Thompson on the other side represents a mouth-watering proposition.

Any such move would allow second-round pick Yetur Gross-Matos to develop at his own pace, which could aid his overall development considerably. Hughes has recorded 51 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, 249 solo tackles, and 14 pass deflections during his career so far. And he has relatively low mileage on the clock for a player at the position.

Hughes still has a few good years left in his NFL career. But whether his age would put the Panthers off any potential move is up for debate. There is a case to be made for making a trade for someone like this given how many young players are still bedding into the defense.

The front office has gone away from veteran players this offseason. But that does not mean they will not target a new recruit if Carolina thinks it will benefit them going forward.