4 promising signs from the Panthers’ win at Washington
By Dean Jones
Donte Jackson’s production
One of the more eye-catching performances at Washington was that of Donte Jackson. The cornerback has looked a completely different player since finally ridding himself of the toe injury that was proving detrimental to his contribution on the field before he was finally taken out of the firing line by the Carolina Panthers.
When Jackson is firing on all cylinders, then so do the Panthers. The cornerback has been at the top of his game since the bye week and his level of production in Week 16 leaves plenty of reasons to be encouraged regarding his long-term aspirations with the franchise.
Jackson was looking to become Carolina’s No. 1 corner option in 2020 after the organization decided to let James Bradberry walk in free agency. It’s been a frustrating campaign for the former LSU standout overall. But there have been some real signs of life of late and this should ensure the coaching staff gives him another chance to prove himself against some of the league’s best wideouts next time around.
The Panthers will probably bring in additional reinforcements in free agency or the 2021 NFL Draft given the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Rasul Douglas and Corn Elder, with rookie duo Stantley Thomas-Oliver and Troy Pride Jr. looking as if they might need some more time to hone their skills in a professional environment.