Donte Jackson, the Carolina Panthers’ veteran cornerback, is the 46th-ranked overall free agent on Pro Football Network’s Top 50 Free Agents list. What sort of contract could Jackson land during free agency, and what are his notable stats and accolades?
Donte Jackson: Free Agency Overview
Jackson could provide value for teams who operate in a lot of zone-coverage schemes. He is extremely athletic but occasionally suffers from lapses in man coverage and tackling. Speed usually makes money, and Jackson will find a healthy market. The injuries he’s sustained, showing a lack of ideal durability, complicate his market a bit.
Recapping Jackson’s 2021 season
Last season, Jackson recorded 61 tackles and 2 interceptions. He had three tackles for losses and one forced fumble in a dozen games.
In 2020, despite having to play through foot injuries for much of the season, Jackson only allowed 443 yards in coverage and a 79.2 passer rating. He also posted a career-high 15 percent forced incompletion rate. He has 12 career interceptions and overall solid production.
Jackson’s contract estimate and salary cap implications
Although health is a legitimate concern since the former second-round draft pick keeps getting hurt, he’s still valuable and could make $7 million to $9 million annually.
Possible landing spots for Jackson
Jackson isn’t necessarily expected back in Carolina due to their salary cap situation and the presence of Stephon Gilmore and Jaycee Horn. The Washington Commanders make sense for Jackson — coach Ron Rivera is very familiar with him. The Houston Texans, depending on the price and if Desmond King returns, could be a potential landing spot for Jackson based on need and Lovie Smith’s defensive scheme.
What they’re saying about Jackson
“I’ve liked a lot of things that Donte has done. Donte is an elite player, we think we just have to keep him healthy and keep him moving in the right direction.” — Panthers coach Matt Rhule last season on Jackson.