Carolina Panthers: Donte Jackson emerging as a shutdown CB
By Dean Jones
Is Donte Jackson a shutdown cornerback?
Not yet.
But the potential is obviously there.
Donte Jackson has the speed and playmaking ability of a shutdown cornerback at the next level. The Carolina Panthers are clearly a better defensive unit when he is firing on all cylinders and although James Bradberry is performing at a high level for the New York Giants, it’s not hard to see why they decided not to match his lucrative free-agent offer.
Jackson has given up 30 receptions from 52 targets this season on his way to three interceptions, 29 tackles, 10 passes defended, and a tackle for loss. This has come from 55 percent of the team’s defensive snaps and although he was missed 25% of his tackles, the corner’s 70.8 grade from Pro Football Focus indicates just how much improvement has been made since his return.
There is plenty at stake next season for Jackson, who is getting a $1.13 million in base salary on the final year of his rookie deal and will count $1.53 million against the Panthers’ salary cap. It’s clear that he’s outplayed this deal already. But with financial resources coming down or staying the same due to COVID-19 revenue losses, the player might have to wait before getting an extension.
Emerging as a true shutdown corner next season will enhance his claims considerably. Judging by what we’ve witnessed over the last few games, Jackson has got every chance of attaining this feat with another strong offseason under his belt.