The Carolina Panthers currently have a vacancy in the slot. Dave Canales recently confirmed that Corey Thornton won last year’s competition before suffering a season-ending broken fibula in November. Chau Smith-Wade filled in for Thornton, but was a liability in coverage. On top of that, the Panthers did not select a slot cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft, though fourth-round pick Will Lee III could play there in a pinch.
The Carolina Panthers could be in play for the top free-agent SCB
Carolina Panthers, Dan Morgan
Sep 29, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan before the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Kenny Moore II is currently a free agent after requesting his release from the Colts following an unsuccessful trade attempt. The former Pro Bowler, who will turn 31 in August, is a good fit for Ejiro Evero’s heavy-zone scheme. He offers positional versatility, can play on the outside and in the box, and is a willing run defender. Moore wanted out of Indianapolis because he struggled to adapt to Lou Anarumo’s heavy-man coverage scheme.
The Panthers named the top fit for the Pro Bowl nickel
Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (23) warms up, Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, before a game against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (23) warms up, Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, before a game against the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
In an NFL Trade Rumors article, Ethan Woodie identified six teams that would be the best fits to land Kenny Moore II. He named the Panthers, noting the slot as one of the biggest question marks and weaknesses on the team. Woodie also notes that Moore would immediately upgrade the position and could help them reach the playoffs for the second straight year.
“The one position that’s still a question mark is slot cornerback. Chau Smith-Wade did not have a good season in 2025 and the depth behind him is lacking, to say the least,” Woodie said.
“That’s where Moore could come in. He’d be an immediate upgrade over Smith-Wade and would form a pretty potent trio of cornerbacks with Horn and Jackson. The only potentially complicating factor here is that Moore isn’t young and wouldn’t be viewed as a long-term piece to build around — but vets like him are necessary for contending teams.
“If the Panthers are ready to take the next step from fun playoff surprise to true playoff-caliber team, they can’t afford to let cornerback be a potential weak spot.