The NFL’s trading block opens Friday, though talks already have been in high gear.

The Panthers tried trading cornerback Ken Lucas to the Detroit Lions. Problem is, once the two sides were engaged in discussions, Lucas let it be known that he did not and would not play in Detroit. Thus, trade talks were abandoned even though some in the league thought the trade might go through.

The talks are an indication of what Carolina has in mind for Lucas, who is scheduled to make $5.6 million in base salary this season. If Carolina cuts Lucas this week, it will free up $2.375 million against its salary cap. For a team desperately searching for space, Lucas provides some of it.