4 Carolina Panthers key to C.J. Henderson’s success following trade
By Dean Jones
Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB
With just 10 NFL games under his belt, C.J. Henderson is still lacking any true experience at the next level. Thankfully, the Carolina Panthers boast two respected figures at the position within their locker room that can smooth his transition.
They are, of course, Donte Jackson and A.J. Bouye.
Jackson formed a fantastic partnership with first-round pick Jaycee Horn right out of the gate. Having constant pressure from Carolina’s defensive line also helped, but there was plenty to like about the way this duo performed over the first three games of the 2021 season.
There will be some additional responsibility on Jackson’s shoulders with Horn set for a significant spell on the sidelines. Not only must the LSU product come up with the goods on the field, but he’ll also be tasked with steering Henderson in the right direction for good measure.
Jackson is a strong character who remains one of the more vocal Panthers players. It appears unlikely he’ll adopt a different approach where Henderson is concerned, so it’ll be interesting to see what reaction he gets from Carolina’s newest recruit.
The Panthers haven’t brought Henderson into the organization as a development project. They need help right now and if Jackson can speed this process along, the better his and Carolina’s chances will be both in the short and long term.