Panthers: 5 toughest matchups for Donte Jackson outside NFC South

Carolina Panthers No. 1: DeAndre Hopkins (WR) – Houston Texans

It won’t take Donte Jackson long to find out just what covering elite wide receivers in the NFL actually entails. The Carolina Panthers welcome the Arizona Cardinals early in the schedule. And this will see the cornerback come up against arguably the best in the business.

DeAndre Hopkins is Kyler Murray’s primary weapon after he was traded from the Houston Texans for compensation that was not in keeping with his talent. The gifted wideout has made three first-team All-Pro selections in just seven years in the NFL. And he has produced a level of consistency that is sure to end with an induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame is he continues this trend going forward.

Jackson will need to ensure that his decision-making is nothing short of perfect against Hopkins, or it could be a long game for the corner. The former Clemson standout is ruthless when it comes to catching the ball almost anywhere on the field. And his hand-eye coordination is right up there with the all-time greats.

Hopkins accumulated 104 receptions for 1,165 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 2019. This earned him a lofty 87.3 grade from Pro Football Focus. But it was clear that his fractured relationship with Bill O’Brien had passed the point of no return.

The Texans’ loss is the Cardinals gain. And the arrival of Hopkins has the potential to get the team back to the postseason despite their tough division.