The Carolina Panthers have made a move to bolster their cornerback position by trading rookie inside linebacker Michael Barrett to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for veteran corner Michael Jackson. The trade comes as the Panthers face the possibility of starting the season without their cornerback starter, Dane Jackson, who is expected to be placed on injured reserve due to a severe hamstring injury.

Carolina had initially been interested in signing veteran corner Stephon Gilmore, but with limited cap space, they were unable to compete for his services. Instead, they turned their attention to Michael Jackson, who brings valuable starting experience to the table. Jackson started 17 games for the Seahawks in 2022 and four games last season. His familiarity with first-year Panthers head coach Dave Canales, who was with the Seahawks in 2022, played a significant role in Carolina's decision to acquire him.

Joining a group that includes D'Shawn Jamison and Dicaprio Bootle, Jackson will be competing for the outside corner spot opposite Jaycee Horn. Jamison had one start as a rookie last season, while Bootle started three games. With the addition of Jackson, the Panthers hope to strengthen their cornerback depth and find the ideal complement to Horn.

In return for Jackson, the Seahawks receive Michael Barrett, a seventh-round pick out of Michigan. Barrett's chances of making the Panthers' final roster seemed slim, making him an ideal trade piece for Seattle. This trade not only addresses their need for depth at inside linebacker but also reunites Barrett with Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald, who was Michigan's defensive coordinator in 2021.

For Seattle, Jackson's departure comes as part of their surplus of quality cornerbacks. Despite starting for the team in 2022, he served as a backup last season behind Pro Bowlers Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon. Jackson also found himself behind Tre Brown on the depth chart, and with Artie Burns showing strong performances in camp, his role with the Seahawks became uncertain.

Michael Jackson, a fifth-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in 2019, has also had stints with the Detroit Lions and New England Patriots. Known for his physicality, he will bring a competitive edge to the Panthers' defense as they look to solidify their secondary for the upcoming season.

The trade between the Panthers and Seahawks presents both teams with an opportunity to address their respective needs. Carolina gains a veteran cornerback with starting experience, while Seattle adds depth at inside linebacker and reunites Barrett with a familiar coach. As the preseason progresses, fans will eagerly watch the development of Michael Jackson in his new role with the Panthers, and how Barrett contributes to the Seahawks' defensive unit.