6 free agents who should be on the Panthers’ wish list in 2021

Ronald Darby – CB

There were a few eyebrows raised when Ronald Darby opted to leave the Philadelphia Eagles in favor of a move to the Washington Football Team. However, judging by what the cornerback has achieved this season, a different environment has been just what the doctor ordered.

Washington’s defense overall has been better than expected under former Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera. Darby was a huge reason for this on the backend and his level of production will ensure plenty of free-agent interest when it’s time to choose his next move.

The Panthers have had some nice play from their cornerback group this season, But defensive coordinator Phil Snow’s lack of belief in them from a man-coverage perspective is costing them in critical moments.

Darby excels in this particular area and proving the player is still motivated enough once he gets the big-money deal many predict during the offseason, then it will be another big shot in the arm for Carolina on their way to becoming a possible postseason contender in the future.

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Darby’s familiarity with Rasul Douglas during their time together in Philadelphia would also serve them well, which is another reason why this move makes a ton of sense and would give No, 1 option Donte Jackson two veterans around him in the event of injury.