Carolina Panthers: Donte Jackson emerging as a shutdown CB
By Dean Jones
Donte Jackson is emerging as a shutdown cornerback for the Carolina Panthers.
There was some skepticism coming into the 2020 season regarding Donte Jackson‘s ability to become a shutdown corner in the NFL. The Carolina Panthers gave him a prime opportunity to fill the No. 1 role after deciding to let James Bradberry walk in free agency. But it was hard not to look at his production earlier in the campaign and not be a little concerned.
Jackson was sluggish for large periods before the Carolina Panthers went on their well-deserved by week. However, it’s easy to forget that the former LSU star was dealing with a serious toe problem that was clearly hampering his ability to make the sort of impression required.
Things have been much better since.
The Panthers made the smart move to take Jackson out of the lineup and get over his problem. He spent almost a month on the sidelines and has come back with a renewed sense of purpose that leaves plenty of reasons to be encouraged moving forward.
Jackson’s stats over the last three games have been sensational. This has coincided with a much improved overall series of displays from a defense that is set to get even better with some additional recruits this offseason.
If the 2018 second-round pick can keep this up moving forward, then Carolina could have a player of immense promise on their hands and one that can be the cornerstone of future success.