4 Panthers players who could get hot down the stretch

Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB

We might finally get to see the real Donte Jackson in the next few weeks. The cornerback has endured a frustrating campaign thanks to a toe injury that clearly hampered his ability to make the necessary impact. But a good period of rest over the last month means there are no more excuses where his production is concerned.

The Carolina Panthers had high hopes for Jackson this season. They took the decision to part ways with James Bradberry in free agency – who has been a revelation with the New York Giants in 2020 – and the jury is still out as to whether he is capable of becoming the team’s No.1 option moving forward.

One could argue that Jackson deserves a pass and some credit for trying to play through the pain and help the Panthers. But the coaching staff were right to take him out of harm’s way during the two games before their bye week.

Matt Rhule declared his confidence that both Jackson and All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey should be good to go against the Broncos. If the former LSU standout is 100 percent, then it is going to be a tremendous asset to have down the stretch and there is nothing to suggest he cannot raise his level of production considerably in the process.