Full story at Charlotte Observer:

The Carolina Panthers have told other teams Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kris Jenkins could be available in a trade.

According to multiple personnel sources from other teams, it has been made clear the Panthers would be willing to trade Jenkins if the price is right.

Carolina has depth at the tackle position and this rumor indicates they no longer feel the need to keep Jenkins, 27, around. And no doubt there are teams in the NFL who need a run-stuffer like Jenkins. Though his contract is fairly big — $4.5M this season, under contract through 2009 — his value is definitely there.

His plugging the middle of the line has earned him three Pro Bowl spots and recognition throughout the league. Teams will need to pay well to buy him, probably in draft choices, though sending a position player Carolina needs is not out of the question.

This is not to say that Jenkins is without flaws. His weight fluctuates and sometimes balloons him to nearly 400 pounds, not to mention he has had some injury concerns. But the positives — young, great at what he does — definitely outweigh these few negatives, and the Panthers will find plenty of teams willing to make a deal.

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