4 reasons the Carolina Panthers could exceed expectations in 2022

Carolina Panthers have a dynamic secondary

Stephon Gilmore’s time playing closer to home with the Carolina Panthers did result in a Pro Bowl appearance but proved to be fleeting nonetheless. The All-Pro cornerback couldn’t work out an extension with the team and signed for the Indianapolis Colts in free agency, but there is a lot to like about the secondary options even without the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Donte Jackson re-signed this offseason and Jaycee Horn is making a return from injury. This should be a productive cornerback tandem and if the likes of Keith Taylor Jr. and C.J. Henderson also make positive adjustments, then this group will be a force to be reckoned with.

There is also plenty to like about the safety options in Carolina. Jeremy Chinn is a star in the making and the signing of Xavier Woods from the Minnesota Vikings in free agency is a substantial upgrade on anything the Panthers put alongside the Southern Illinois product during the previous campaign.

The pass-happy world of the NFL brings additional demands on defensive backs. But it would be a massive disappointment if this group failed to produce the goods under the guidance of Steve Wilks, Carolina’s returning defensive backs coach who is widely respected within the organization and across the league.

Only time will tell, obviously. But the secondary could be an area of real strength and something that can assist the Panthers in finally making more noise.