Carolina Panthers: Ranking the top 5 players under 25

3. Donte Jackson – CB (age 24)

There have been some significant changes to the cornerback position with the Carolina Panthers this offseason. This has placed their hopes squarely on the shoulders of Donte Jackson, who is now the undisputed No. 1 option.

This is a substantial increase in responsibility for the player. But Jackson has shown he is more than ready for any challenge that comes his way during his time with the franchise so far.

How he fares covering the best in the business is going to have huge ramifications on Carolina’s chances in 2020 and beyond. The decision-makers made a big call in letting James Bradberry walk in free agency. And this might give Jackson the confidence he needs going forward.

He is an enormously talented player that has great instincts and is fluid in his movements. Although the Panthers defense struggled mightily in 2019. Jackson was one of the real bright spots and the organization is counting on the player to make a leap forward.

Jackson might be in line for a substantial pay rise if he reaches his ceiling next season. He is entering the penultimate year of his rookie deal. And Carolina would be hard-pressed not to give him a multi-million dollar extension next spring if he proves himself to be a corner with true shutdown potential.