3 realistic goals for the Carolina Panthers defense in 2022
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers reach top 5 in overall passing defense
The Carolina Panthers made significant strides with their pass defense in 2021. Jaycee Horn going down with a broken foot in Week 3 against the Houston Texans left the secondary somewhat limited in coverages throughout the year, but it was positive overall from a young unit that can improve once again this season.
Horn brings supreme physical size. The former No. 8 overall selection is also excellent in bump-and-run assignments, with the second-year player coming with exceptional athletic traits that could take the NFL by storm in 2022.
Donte Jackson and Horn should be a great duo together. The LSU product has continued to improve throughout the years and was handed a new three-year deal this offseason in recognition of his outstanding progress.
Jackson should continue to develop as an overall cornerback with Horn on the other side. His jumps in the run game also made strides thanks to improved tackling and ending the season with a 78.5 grade from Pro Football Focus in this category.
C.J Henderson made tremendous progress this offseason, making plays in training camp benefitting enormously from the presence of defensive backs coach Steve Wilks. The Florida product is now familiar with Phil Snow’s scheme and is ready to show why he was a top 10 pick in 2020.
Henderson’s progression with Jackson and Horn along with Jeremy Chinn and Xavier Woods at the safety spot will only help this pass defense ascend and continue to be dominant.