Carolina Panthers final 53-man roster projection for 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers CBs (6)
- Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, A.J. Bouye, Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, Keith Taylor Jr., Rashaan Melvin.
Losing Troy Pride Jr. to a season-ending injury makes the decisions at cornerback a little easier for those in power. The Carolina Panthers are expecting some major improvements from their secondary in the coming months and although it was on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ second-string, their contribution on Friday evening was incredibly pleasing.
Jaycee Horn and Donte Jackson will form the starting tandem. Their respective skill sets seem to complement each other well, with the No. 8 overall selection fitting in seamlessly to the next level so far.
There remains some hope A.J. Bouye can get back to the form of old covering out of the slot. The former Pro Bowler is suspended for the first two games of the season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy and injury also prevented him from participating in a large part of training camp.
Stantley Thomas-Oliver III’s made some encouraging developments to his game and should be on the rotation. Fifth-round pick Keith Taylor Jr. is a little rough around the edges, but there is definitely something to work with where the Washington product is concerned.
If it was a straight fight between Rashaan Melvin and Pride during camp, it’s the veteran’s spot by default and especially considering Jalen Julius’ struggles.