Panthers: 4 free agents worth signing with remaining cap space
By Dean Jones
MICHIGAN STATE. DARQUEZEDENNARD. player. 87. Pick Analysis. 1. Scouting Report. CB
Carolina Panthers Player No. 1: Darqueze Dennard (CB)
The Carolina Panthers could still use one more player to boost their cornerback room. They look set to go into the season with Donte Jackson, Eli Apple, and Troy Pride Jr. as their starting options. And it remains to be seen whether this trio is up to the challenge.
They are coming up against some exceptional passing attacks in 2020. So if the Panthers want to show progress, it is going to take a monumental effort from all three projected starters from the outset.
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If Carolina opts to bring in another veteran to strengthen this area of the field, then Darqueze Dennard should be high on the shortlist. The former first-round pick has excelled in the slot in recent seasons. And it remains somewhat strange that he hasn’t yet been picked up by another team after he parted ways with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Dennard gave up 18 receptions from 33 targets in 2019 on his way to an impressive 72.2 grade from Pro Football Focus. There are some questions as to whether the player wants to be known as a specialist slot cornerback. But there could even be an opportunity on the outside for the Panthers.
The capabilities of Apple in a prominent role remain in question. And it doesn’t appear likely that Pride Jr. will be ready for the No. 2 spot despite his impressive combination of speed and athleticism.
This might leave the decision-makers with no other option other than to bring in additional competition. And Dennard comes with considerable appeal.