4 trade deadline targets to boost Carolina Panthers pass-rush

Quinnen Williams – DT (New York Jets)

Although the New York Jets have denied they’re trying to move Quinnen Williams if they received a big offer then there is no doubt it is something worth considering. The defensive tackle seems to be growing in stature with each passing game and this makes a ton of sense for the Carolina Panthers.

The organization needs a long-term replacement for Kawann Short, who is on the reserve/injured list once again after undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery. The Pro Bowler is unlikely to be kept around with a $20.83 million cap hit on the final year of his deal and getting a prolific player to put alongside No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown should be a top priority for the decision-makers.

Brown has struggled to make the same sort of impression in recent games with extra attention on his shoulders. He was double-teamed on almost every down at the college level at Auburn. But dealing with formidable linemen at the next level is a completely different ball game.

If Carolina could somehow pull off this move, it could be a game-changer. Williams has the sort of physical attributes that compliment Brown extremely well and his ability to get after the quarterback consistently is another standout feature of his game that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The former No. 3 overall pick’s price is probably more than the Panthers are willing to pay. But it could revolutionize their defensive front.