5 free agents the Panthers should sign with Tre Boston savings
By Dean Jones
Steven Nelson – CB
- 2020 team – Pittsburgh Steelers
Steven Nelson probably thought he’d be signed by now after getting his wish of a release from the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. However, the time is fast approaching where the talented cornerback might be willing to accept a one-year deal on lesser money somewhere just so he can get a full offseason program under his belt.
The former third-round pick out of Oregon State was still playing at a high level in 2020 and unlike most free agents on the market at this time of year, he might have his best football ahead of him at 28 years old.
Nelson gave up 43 receptions from 76 targets thrown his way last season, according to Pro Football Focus, which is pretty good by anybody’s standards.
The Carolina Panthers made some notable additions to their cornerback room this offseason. But considering A.J. Bouye is suspended for the first two games, No. 8 overall selection Jaycee Horn may need time to adjust, and questions surrounding Troy Pride Jr. and Stantley Thomas-Oliver’s ability to contribute, someone like Nelson makes a ton of sense at the right price.
Just why Nelson is still sitting on the free-agent scrapheap is a head-scratcher, especially as we are now over a month since the draft came to a conclusion. It would be a surprise if another team didn’t pick him up in the near future, but whether that’s the Panthers remains to be seen.