5 easy decisions the Carolina Panthers must make in 2022 free agency

Carolina Panthers must not overpay for Donte Jackson

Donte Jackson has quietly emerged as a top performer at the cornerback position. There are some obvious concerns when it comes to his injury history, but the former second-round pick’s production over the last two years puts him in a great position ahead of a potential megabucks deal this spring.

Jackson was deemed a little raw with every athletic attribute imaginable coming out of LSU. There have been some moments of struggle, but the player deserves an enormous amount of credit for making the necessary improvements to become more forceful in coverage and against the run.

This poses a significant problem for the Carolina Panthers, who have let corners leave in their prime before. Jackson could be another name added to the list if his representatives demand too much when they head to the bargaining table.

In an ideal world, the Panthers can keep both Jackson and Stephon Gilmore on the books. However, their financial constraints indicate it might be a choice between the two when it’s all said and done.

One thing Carolina cannot do is overpay for Jackson. He is an important member of the organization on and off the field, but being held to ransom is not the best way to build a winning roster with limited funds.