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Panthers Send Kris Jenkins to Jets for Draft Picks

By Brinson | February 29, 2008

There was lots of discussion about this in the previous few days, so it shouldn’t be a huge surprise, although it is mildly disappointing to find out that the Panthers have shipped defensive tackle and former Pro Bowler Kris Jenkins to the New York Jets for a third and fifth round draft pick.

It’s probably a good thing - Jenkins is a beast when healthy. But last year was the first time in a while he’s truly been that, and we’re probably shipping him at the peak of his value. Well, actually four years ago would have been the peak of his value, but this is still pretty high. It’s also probably worth noting that the team (and I’m paraphrasing CDM here) must have seen something on tape either with Jenkins or elsewhere on the defensive line, that made them willing to give him up.

Or, it’s just another attempt to dump salary.

Carolina was anxious to trade Jenkins before owing him a $1 million roster bonus. The trade clears about $3 million in salary cap room for this season.

The Panthers also tried to deal Jenkins before last year’s draft, but their demand for a first-round pick wasn’t met. The most the St. Louis Rams were willing to give up at that time was believed to be a second-rounder.

Today’s move vaults Damione Lewis into the starting lineup at defensive tackle with Maake Kemoeatu. The Panthers will be looking for depth at defensive tackle and today are hosting a visit from Rod Coleman, who was recently released by Atlanta.

Fact of the matter is that we had too much cash tied up in our defensive line, especially when you consider how badly they had underperformed recently. (Looking at you, Peppers!) We’re now suddenly loaded with draft picks and extra cash under the salary cap, even if swinging Jenkins for two non-first or second round picks seems like we got stole on.

Update: The Jets apparently immediately inked Jenkins to a $35 million deal, with 20 million of it guaranteed. If that’s what it was going to take to keep the big guy, then we did good here.