4 Panthers the Cleveland Browns should trade for amid fire sale

1. Xavier Woods, Safety

Every game this season has had a similar theme for the Cleveland defense — they’ve been susceptible to the deep ball. They gave up a 75-yard touchdown to Robbie Anderson in Week 1 against Carolina. Then in Week 2, Corey Davis broke free for a 66-yarder as he helped the Jets upset Cleveland.

In all, the Browns have surrendered 1,379 yards and eight touchdowns through the air with just two picks. Following each game, there’s been plenty of blame to pass around and there was a time when it started to sound as though they were all pointing fingers at one another.

One player who has been singled out is Grant Delpit, who has been struggling in coverage. Having said that, it’s not all on him. Sure, he’s the one getting beat, but he’s also playing out of position. Delpit — just like John Johnson III and Ronnie Harrison — is much better as a strong safety where he can play closer to the line of scrimmage.

None of the three primary safeties for the Browns are known for their ability as a centerfielder. That’s why they should be looking for anyone who can fill that role, and the Panthers have someone who would be an upgrade in Xavier Woods.

A former sixth-round pick for the Dallas Cowboys in 2017, Woods has played both strong and free safety. He’s also covered in the slot and has eight career picks and 29 pass defenses.

On top of his coverage skills, he’s no slouch when it comes to making tackles, as he had 108 last season for the Minnesota Vikings and now has 387 in 82 career games.

Woods isn’t an All-Pro but he’s a serviceable starter that has two more years on his deal following this season, making him worth making a call on.