4 reasons why the Panthers could secure unlikely playoff spot in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could have an elite secondary
There are some questions surrounding the defensive line depth and the middle linebacker position. But the Carolina Panthers might have an elite secondary to call upon in 2022.
This is an area of the field where the Panthers have invested heavily in recent years, Whether it’s via the draft, free agency, or trades, the front office has prioritized the defensive backs and this could be the campaign where it all bears fruit.
Couple this with the return of Steve Wilks, one of the best secondary coaches in the business, and it’s not hard to see why hopes are extremely high surrounding this unit.
Jaycee Horn is returning to full health, Donte Jackson re-signed, Keith Taylor Jr. could increase his influence in Year 2, and C.J. Henderson’s outstanding preparation period gives Carolina four staring-caliber cornerbacks that can shut down the opposition providing there is enough pressure on quarterbacks across the line of scrimmage.
The Panthers have a difference-maker on the backend in Jeremy Chinn, who could be set for a bumper new contract in 2023 with additional strides in the coming months. He’ll have a productive partner alongside him in Xavier Woods, with the free-agent signing from the Minnesota Vikings instantly making his presence felt in training camp.
Keeping them healthy will be key. But there is absolutely nothing to suggest this group cannot take the league by storm under Wilks’ expert guidance.