5 free-agent cornerbacks the Panthers should target in 2021
By Dean Jones
Desmond King
- 2020 team – Tennessee Titans
Although Desmond King only arrived at the Tennessee Titans midway through the season via trade, there does appear to be some doubt as to whether the cornerback will be sticking around. There was a lot to like about the way he went about his business in 2020, but with finances incredibly tight across the league, it’s probably going to take some comprise for him to be on the team next season.
That might work to the Carolina Panthers’ advantage, who might need another body to cover in the slot if Corn Elder isn’t brought back in free agency. King might be a little undersized for a player at the position, but he more than makes up for his with a high football IQ and tenacity that really sets him apart.
Spotrac projects King to command an annual salary of $6.8 million on a four-year, $27.5 million deal this offseason when he heads to the bargaining table. If he’s asking for this sort of financial commitment the Panthers should look at a cheaper alternative, which Elder will certainly be after making the most of a bigger role during the campaign.
However, if it’s a little bit less, then a call might be made. King has experience of playoff football now and this would serve him well on a young roster that made some encouraging strides defensively last time out.