4 cornerback trade targets for the Carolina Panthers
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers trade target: Brian Poole – Jets
Brian Poole might have signed a one-year extension worth $5 million with the New York Jets this offseason. But the cornerback faces a real fight for game time thanks to the presence of Pierre Desir and Blessuan Austin on the depth chart.
An ankle injury during training camp is not going to aid his cause whatsoever. Poole was one of the bright spots in an otherwise disappointing campaign for the Jets in 2019, giving up 33 receptions from 53 targets thrown his way.
Poole might only be 5-foot-9, but he plays much taller. He possesses ruthless aggression and has the adequate speed to get the job done on a consistent basis. Whether the player is more suited to the slot in Phil Snow’s scheme with the Carolina Panthers is unclear. But the former Florida Gator is an intriguing possibility, at the very least.
The Panthers would need to be sure than his recent injury trouble is not something that is going to have a big impact on his ability to make a significant contribution in 2020. Poole is arguably an upgrade on anything Carolina has behind No. 1 option Donte Jackson and is experienced enough to come in and start right away.
Poole also spent time playing at linebacker with the Atlanta Falcons in 2018. This sort of versatility is something the Panthers have looked for in almost every potential recruit under the new regime.