4 big differences to expect from the Panthers defense in 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers will use press coverage a lot more
It was incredibly frustrating to see the Carolina Panthers struggling to get off the field on third down in 2020. This was thanks in no small part to Donte Jackson’s ongoing injury problems and the lack of reliable options elsewhere, which hampered them considerably in critical moments and played a leading role in their eventual demise.
Thankfully, this is something that was also recognized by the Panthers.
They made a point of transforming their cornerback room this offseason. If everything clicks into place, it will go from a weak link to an area of real strength in a hurry.
The most notable addition is obviously Jaycee Horn. The South Carolina product was selected at No. 8 overall by the Panthers and comes into the NFL with shutdown potential and a Pro Bowl ceiling.
Horn has everything one looks for in a top corner. He is a high character individual who is athletic and physically imposing in equal measure. The task awaiting him is steep, but the player appears more than ready to shoulder some significant responsibility as a rookie.
Couple this with the free-agent signing of A.J. Bouye, fifth-round pick Keith Taylor Jr., and a healthy Jackson from the outset, the Panthers should be able to deploy press coverage far more effectively next time around.