5 Panthers players who could become nice surprises in 2021
By Dean Jones
A.J. Bouye – Carolina Panthers CB
Getting more productive cornerbacks was something that formed a big part of the Carolina Panthers’ plans this offseason. Their lack of ability in press coverage was there for all to see last time out and unless consistency came from Donte Jackson down the stretch, it didn’t arrive at all.
Credit to the Panthers, who brought in some experience and youthful exuberance that could reap some instant rewards in 2021. Jaycee Horn and Keith Taylor Jr. were both taken in the draft and come with a substantial amount of upside, with the acquisition of free-agent signing A.J. Bouye another potentially shrewd move that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Bouye didn’t exactly thrive on the Denver Broncos last season. However, the former Pro Bowler has seen it all and although he won’t be available until Week 3, there could be a big role for him to play if he hits the ground running.
Having plenty of athletic playmakers around Bouye in the secondary might make all the difference. There is no guarantee he can return to the sort of form that made him one of the best in the business once upon a time with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but the veteran couldn’t have picked a better spot to wind up in.
Adding Bouye to a unit that also includes Jackson, Horn, Taylor, and Jeremy Chinn on the backend is a mouth-watering proposition and one that could further improve a defense that made some notable strides last time around.