4 free-agent cornerbacks who are still on the market for Panthers
By Dean Jones
Brian Poole
- 2020 team – New York Jets
It’s something of a surprise that Brian Poole still finds himself on the free-agent market considering how well he performed for the New York Jets in 2020. The cornerback only managed nine games due to injury – seven of which he started – but his accomplished ability in coverage on the outside or in the slot made a massive difference for a defense that was moribund at best overall.
Poole has a lot of the characteristics that the Carolina Panthers have sought heavily in their recruitment since Matt Rhule took charge. He can work in multiple positions, has solid athleticism, and possesses a strong work ethic that is sure to fit in well with others on the roster.
There has been reported interest in Poole from the Cleveland Browns, although nothing has come of it thus far. Spotrac project the former Florida star to command an annual salary of $4.3 million on a two-year, $8.7 million deal, which would be well within the Panthers’ price range if they went in this particular direction.
It doesn’t appear as if both Rasul Douglas and Corn Elder will be back, with the former generating a strong market according to FanSided’s NFL insider Matt Lombardo. So it’s vital that Carolina gets some plug-and-play signings to boost depth and Poole is a good option at this stage providing he can stay healthy.