3 free-agent cornerbacks that could compete in camp
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers: Cornerback target – Ross Cockrell
If the Carolina Panthers want to bring in someone who will immediately fit in. Then cornerback Ross Cockrell is someone they should seriously consider.
The player is still looking for a new home after not having his contract renewed initially by the Panthers this offseason. And this was something of a surprise given the way he performed in 2019.
Cockrell did show signs of promise during a difficult season overall from the Panthers’ defense. He was targeted 67 times, giving up 37 receptions on his way to a modest grade of 57.9 from Pro Football Focus.
If the Panthers were to give Cockrell another shot at proving himself. It would bring back a player who performed well in the surroundings and give newer members of the roster someone to lean on for advice and guidance on what to expect in the Carolina environment.
It would also give Cockrell a chance to fight for a spot on the 53-man roster. Which he would not have the opportunity to do elsewhere. Whether the new Panthers’ coaching staff will want to bring in a player who was part of the old regime is another matter entirely.
The former fourth-round pick out of Duke has recorded career stats of 167 solo tackles, one forced fumble, seven interceptions, and 44 pass deflections. He is entering the prime of his physical ability and would probably just at the chance of a potential return.