Jarvis Landry trade rumors: 5 teams that make sense

3. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers seem to be trying to diversify their offense, with the drafting of Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel to try to get the ball out of Cam Newton’s hands faster on shorter passes. McCaffrey and Samuel can and probably will operate out of the slot at times, but it’s not the same as having a capable wide receiver to fill that role.

The Panthers are trying to protect Newton from injury this year, as he has been hit the most of any quarterback in the league since his career started in 2011. That means the likelihood of fewer designed runs, and theoretically fewer downfield throws that would make him vulnerable to big hits in the pocket. Landry’s short area quickness and reliability would fit that new passing game mold perfectly, if Newton can improve his accuracy on those shorter throws.

Interior defensive line is not necessarily a huge need for the Dolphins, but Carolina can offer defensive tackle Star Lotulelei in a deal for Landry. The former first-round pick is also entering the final year of his deal, and he may lose some playing time to 2016 first-round pick Vernon Butler this year. If the Panthers see Lotulelei as a disposable asset, and it’s easy to think they might, he may be enough to get Miami’s attention.