Robert Griffin III questions Carolina Panthers trade logic

Jackson, a two-time Pro Bowler and former league MVP, was hit with the non-exclusive rights franchise tag by the Ravens last week, leaving him free to negotiate and sign an offer sheet with any other interested NFL team come the start of free agency. In this unique situation, Baltimore would then have five days to match his new deal or choose to accept two first-round picks in return — a substantially lower price than what the Panthers just paid the Bears for the top pick.

Signing Jackson would have additionally allowed them to keep their second-round picks, as well as Moore, a 25-year old receiver who had posted three straight seasons of at least 1,150 yards and 115 targets before Carolina entered quarterback purgatory during the past campaign. 

The throw-in of Moore is not mere window dressing, either. The Panthers have just three receivers under contract for the coming season who saw playing time in 2022-23. with Terrace Marshall Jr., Laviska Shenault Jr. and Shi Smith combining for just 77 receptions on 120 targets, 1,058 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

Regardless of who Carolina opts to draft with the first pick -- they are rumored to be high on Alabama QB Bryce Young and Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud -- there will be little offensive help waiting on roster.