5 AFC East free agents the Panthers could target in 2021
By Dean Jones
Brian Poole – CB
- 2020 team – New York Jets
The Carolina Panthers could use another cornerback who can come in and make an immediate impact. It appears as if the rookie duo of Troy Pride Jr. and Stantley Thomas-Oliver need a little more time to develop their respective skill sets before occupying a prominent starting role. There is also the uncertain status of Corn Elder and Rasul Douglas to consider with both out of contract this offseason.
Bringing in a free-agent veteran would be more of a guarantee than a mid-round rookie, or even a high-end selection. So if the Panthers are serious about entering the playoff picture in 2021, someone like Brian Poole might be of some use.
The New York Jets are embarking on a new era with head coach Robert Saleh, which could see a significant amount of player turnover as a result. Poole did play well in 2020 on a defense that struggled overall, giving up 27 of 40 targets thrown his way to secure an eye-catching 77.1 grade from Pro Football Focus. So there is little doubt he could help Carolina in a position of need.
Again, finances may play a part in any decision to try and bring Poole to the Panthers. The Jets might also look to extend the former Florida Gator, who did his best work out of the slot this season which is always in high demand across the NFL.
If the Panthers decide not to bring Elder back – who occupied the nick cornerback position for the majority of the campaign – then a replacement needs to be sought at the earliest possible opportunity.