4 Panthers players who could benefit from trade deadline inactivity
By Dean Jones
Donte Jackson – Carolina Panthers CB
Among the rumors swirling before the trade deadline on social media was a shock trade for Donte Jackson. Although this didn’t necessarily gain much traction, one couldn’t dismiss the potential benefits of moving on the cornerback less than a year into his new deal if the Carolina Panthers were looking to recoup some draft capital.
Jackson’s production has been sketchy this season. An outstanding interception at the Atlanta Falcons was a step in the right direction, but another injury complication forced the second-round selection off in the closing stages and it remains to be seen whether it’ll keep him out in Week 9 at the Cincinnati Bengals.
General manager Scott Fitterer stated he would take calls on almost anybody. Whether Jackson was the subject of any interest is debatable, but the Panthers can now move forward with their quickest coverage cornerback and one of the most vocal members of the locker room.
The jury is still out on Jackson, to a certain extent. Jaycee Horn is the team’s No. 1 option and the progress made by C.J. Henderson in recent weeks cannot be ignored, but the staff obviously sees the LSU product as a key piece this season and when some landmark changes occur in 2023.
Standing firm on trade deadline day was a contentious issue for many. But the Panthers have eight draft selections next spring, which brings plenty of options whichever way they choose to go.