Carolina Panthers: 3 trade targets from the Detroit Lions

Carolina Panthers trade target: Jarrad Davis (LB)

The magnitude of legendary linebacker Luke Kuechly’s retirement on the Carolina Panthers cannot be understated. He was the heart and soul of their defense from the moment he stepped onto the field. And he would have been a substantial asset during this expected period of transition.

Carolina has bet all their chips that Tahir Whitehead can fill the void short term. But he is the wrong side of 30 now and was only given a one-year, $2.5 million deal to prise him from the Las Vegas Raiders.

A longer-term solution will need to be found at the earliest possible opportunity. And Jarrad Davis represents an intriguing player that the Panthers might be able to get on the cheap.

Davis did not have his fifth-year option picked up by the Detroit Lions. And he faces some stern competition to keep his starting role thanks to the arrival of Pro Bowler Jamie Collins Sr. The team also has high hopes that Jahlani Tavai can make strides in his second season in a professional environment.

Carolina would be wise to at least explore the possibility of taking Davis, who has the speed and athleticism that the organization sought from almost all of their signings and draft picks in 2020. There is every chance that uncertainty surrounding his place on the roster will be the making of the linebacker. But a fresh start might be best for all parties.