As the only winless team remaining in the league, the Carolina Panthers have been the subject of major rumors leading up to the NFL trade deadline.
It makes sense. Carolina’s first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft is headed to the Chicago Bears. General manager Scott Fitterer needs to add more draft capital as the Panthers continue with what promises to be a lengthy rebuild.
Unfortunately, one major trade chip ahead of the deadline is now off the market. Star safety Jeremy Chinn was placed on injured reserve Tuesday with a quad injury. It will cost him at least the next four games, meaning a trade is not possible with the deadline a week from Tuesday.
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Chinn, 25, was among the most talked about Panthers trade chips. The fourth-year player has been a full-time starter since joining Carolina as a second-round pick out of Southern Illinois back in 2020. He’s also set to hit free agency next March.
In 48 career games (all starts) with the Panthers, Chinn has recorded 209 tackles, 12 QB hits, three forced fumbles and two interceptions. He’s seen as a versatile player who can suit up at linebacker, both safety spots and slot cornerback.
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Carolina Panthers trade chips following Jeremy Chinn injury news
The biggest name being talked about is Pro Bowl edge rusher Brian Burns. He’s also slated to become a free agent next March after failing to come to terms on a contract extension this past offseason.
Carolina had turned down an offer of two first-round picks and a second-rounder from the Los Angeles Rams for Burns ahead of last season’s NFL Draft deadline. Given his status as an impending free agent, Burns’ value has decreased. The former first-round pick has registered 86 QB hits, 50 tackles for loss and 42 sacks in 70 career games. There is going to be significant interest in him.
Other potential trade chips include right tackle Taylor Moton, wide receiver Adam Thielen, EDGE rusher Justin Houston and cornerback Donte Jackson.
