5 Carolina Panthers players who don’t get enough respect

Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB

There were some doubts about Donte Jackson‘s future with the Carolina Panthers as his contract expired this spring. The cornerback grew in stature before ending yet another campaign on the reserve/injured list in 2021, so the jury was out as to whether the organization would allocate funds to him or former All-Pro Stephon Gilmore, who was acquired from the New England Patriots in-season.

As it turned out, the Panthers went with Jackson and allowed Gilmore to leave in free agency for the Indianapolis Colts. This secures a homegrown talent over his prime years and there could be even more to come from a player that has all the tools needed to become a shutdown presence.

One area where Jackson’s progressed significantly is on running downs. His ability to read plays and react accordingly is developing well, which is matched by consistent coverage more often than not.

There are times when Jackon suffers lapses in concentration. The LSU product has also missed 10 games over the last three seasons due to various injury problems.

With that being said, having Jackson and Jaycee Horn as the team’s starting cornerback tandem next season comes with real potential. Keith Taylor and C.J. Henderson should also help, with the defensive backs now being guided by one of the best coaches around in Steve Wilks.

Jackson doesn’t get nearly enough respect. But that might not be the case this time next year if the corner can finally stay fit for a full slate.