4 premier landing spots for Donte Jackson in 2022 free agency
By Dean Jones
Where could Carolina Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson end up next if the organization decides to let him test the free-agent market in 2022?
The Carolina Panthers have some real thinking to do in the coming weeks ahead of the all-important free agency period. This is a crucial time to add reinforcements and keep established players around, with Donte Jackson one such individual whose future is up in the air right now.
Jackson was playing at a high level in 2021 before an injury once again ended his season early. The talent where the former second-round pick out of LSU is concerned cannot be disputed, but money is tight in Carolina and this could lead to the cornerback looking elsewhere once the free agency frenzy begins.
The Panthers have just $17.86 million in cap space, according to Spotrac. This suggests retaining both Jackson and All-Pro Stephon Gilmore will be almost impossible and if it is a choice between the two, one suspects those in power might go for the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year given the need for experience within a talented young cornerback unit.
If Jackson starts taking offers from elsewhere, there should be a queue of willing suitors. His ability in coverage improved significantly over the last two seasons and some eye-catching strides were also made from a tackling standpoint to further enhance his overall influence.
With this in mind, here are four premier landing spots for Jackson if the player and the Panthers end their association with one another.