Panthers depth chart: All change at the cornerback spot in 2020

Carolina Panthers CB depth chart: The projected starters

This season promises to be a big one for Donte Jackson. The Carolina Panthers will give the player a chance to become their No. 1 option after James Bradberry departed in free agency thanks to a three-year, $43 million deal with the New York Giants.

Jackson appears more than ready for a step up in class. He has shown tremendous promise during his career so far. And the corner will now be tasked with covering the opposition’s best receiving threat on almost every down.

There is nothing to suggest that Jackson is not ready for such a role. He is extremely fluid going down the field and his anticipation is another element of his game that stands out considerably.

The fight for the No. 2 position opposite Jackson will be between free-agent signing Eli Apple and fourth-round pick Troy Pride Jr. Both will find themselves in the starting rotation. But this will be one of the key battles to watch whenever training camp gets underway.

Apple signed a one-year deal worth $3 million to give the unit a much-needed veteran presence. The former New Orleans Saint has failed to make the most out of his impressive skill set during his time in the NFL so far. And this might be his last chance to prove he was worth the tenth overall selection once upon a time.

The Panthers also have high hopes for Pride Jr. in terms of contributing during his rookie season. The former Notre Dame standout has the pace to burn. But he will need to work on his coverage skills at the next level in order to make a success of his career.

Having Apple and Jackson on the roster will take some of the immediate pressure off. And Pride Jr. might see more time as a nickel cornerback than he initially expected.