4 free-agent CBs to target after disappointing Week 1 display
By Dean Jones
Trumaine Johnson
Trumaine Johnson might be the most talented cornerback remaining in free agency. The vastly experienced player might have had a down year with the New York Jets in 2019 through no fault of his own. But he could be an instant upgrade on anything the Carolina Panthers are currently working with.
The coaching staff would be wise to seek the counsel of Robby Anderson if they wanted to make a move such as this. The pair probably lined up opposite each other prominently during practice and this sort of insider knowledge should be sought regarding Johnson.
Johnson started just five games for the Jets last season due to injury. Much will depend on the player’s health. But if the former Montana standout can get back to anything like his 2018 form, then it is an option worth considering for the Panthers.
How much worse could Johnson be from that which we saw on Sunday? Carolina’s lack of ability to get pressure on Derek Carr didn’t do the secondary any favors. But their inability to successfully cope with their respective assignments was something that eventually cost them.
Whether Johnson would want to join a team going through a period of transition or wait for a possible contender to suffer an injury is up for debate. Exploring the possibility would not do any harm if there is an interest from the Panthers’ perspective.