Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB
There was some doubt as to whether or not Donte Jackson would be brought back by the Carolina Panthers after his contract expired this spring. This had nothing to do with the cornerback’s talent – it was more a case of dependability on the health front than anything else.
As it turned out, the Panthers got a deal done with Jackson, which spelled the end of All-Pro Stephon Gilmore’s brief stint with the organization after an in-season trade from the New England Patriots. Keeping one around was absolutely essential and Carolina went with the younger, less accomplished player on a solid financial expenditure for all parties.
This was a supreme vote of confidence in Jackson’s ability.
Now, the former second-round pick out of LSU must repay this faith.
Jackson certainly looked like a shutdown presence at times last season. His tackling also made him a more influential figure on running downs and there was a lot to like about the player’s transition into a leadership role.
If Jackson fails to meet lofty expectations within a cornerback room that also consists of Jaycee Horn, C.J. Henderson, and Keith Taylor Jr., then it won’t take long for questions to surface about choosing the player over Gilmore this offseason.