5 Panthers who look primed for long-term deals through Week 5
By Dean Jones
Rasul Douglas – Carolina Panthers CB
Rasul Douglas was the latest of arrivals to the Carolina Panthers after he failed to make the 53-man roster of the Philadelphia Eagles when the final cuts were made. The decision-makers wasted no time in picking the cornerback up off the waiver wire and it has already proven to be a shrewd move.
Douglas has slotted in seamlessly to the Panthers and has provided a physicality and length that was sorely missing from within the group prior to the campaign. While he doesn’t come with the same exciting skill set as free-agent departure James Bradberry, the former third-round pick has more than held his own against some outstanding opposition through five weeks.
No. 1 corner option Donte Jackson has missed some time through injury, which has thrust Douglas into the role. This is a challenge that has propelled his game to new heights and there is little denying the fact his level of production will significantly bolster his chances of a longer stay in Carolina if this trend continues going forward.
Not even the Panthers coaching staff expected Douglas to make this type of impact. His efforts over his initial five games have resulted in a creditable 66.0 grade from Pro Football Focus, and although he might have struggled to cope with Falcons wideout Calvin Ridley in the second half, this does not detract from what a tremendous addition he’s proven to be.