Panthers Linked to Dolphins Defensive Tackle Zach Sieler

Carolina’s defense has struggled over the past two weeks, with injuries thinning its secondary and the run defense ranking among the NFL’s worst. Through seven games, the Panthers have allowed just over 140 rushing yards per game and 198.3 per game at home, the league’s second-highest figure.

The team has given up more than 258 rushing yards in two home games. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has been fired, but the defensive line has remained relatively healthy despite the team’s problems against the run.

Zach Sieler, a veteran defensive tackle with the Miami Dolphins, has been floated as a possible fit. He has recorded two sacks this season and is described as a strong run defender. Sieler signed a three-year contract valued at as much as $67 million.

Miami, sitting at 1-7, is viewed as a potential seller ahead of the November 10 trade deadline. Moving Sieler could save the Dolphins about $13.8 million next year. A proposed trade valuation is a conditional fifth-round pick, although Carolina has no fifth-round selection and does have two fourth-rounders.

The Panthers could offer one of those fourth-round picks to acquire help for a run defense that has remained a major weakness. The deadline is November 10 at 4 p.m. ET.