5 former Carolina Panthers players who thrived elsewhere in 2021
By Dean Jones
Rasul Douglas – Carolina Panthers CB
The general perception from the Carolina Panthers in 2020 was they didn’t have any reliable options when it came to man coverage in the secondary. This became a constant source of frustration without Donte Jackson in the lineup and forced coordinator Phil Snow to play Cover 2 and 3 defenses at critical moments with little in the way of success.
Rasul Douglas got plenty of reps for the Panthers last season, enjoying a fine start before tailing off down the stretch. The team felt it necessary to move on from the cornerback this offseason, but a switch to the Green Bay Packers gave the veteran a new lease of life.
Considering Douglas was criticized for his ability in man last season, it’s been a surprise to see the player thriving in this critical area for the Packers. Something that’s come in for praise from quarterback Aaron Rodgers and other leading analysts.
The former third-round pick has given up just 33 receptions from 64 targets so far this season en route to an eye-catching 73.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. Despite Jaire Alexander returning just in time for the Packers’ postseason run, Douglas has done more than enough to remain in the starting rotation.
Douglas’ time with the Panthers didn’t finish on a high note. But the West Virginia product is making up for some lost time in Green Bay and might even end the season with a Super Bowl ring to show for his efforts.