Panthers Begin Defensive Overhaul with ‘s Release
The Carolina Panthers have kicked off their offseason roster moves by releasing veteran cornerback Dane Jackson. Announced on Friday, this decision marks the beginning of a defensive shake-up as the team prepares for the 2025 season. Jackson’s departure raises questions about how Carolina will adjust its secondary moving forward.
Jackson’s Struggles and Limited Contribution
Jackson’s time in Carolina was plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. After signing a two-year, $8.5 million contract in March 2024, he missed the first six games of the season due to a hamstring injury. Upon his return, he primarily played as a nickelback but struggled in coverage, allowing a 123.6 passer rating and a 75.9% completion rate when targeted. His release frees up $3.35 million in cap space, giving Carolina more financial flexibility for roster upgrades.
A Focus on Younger Talent
With Jackson gone, the Panthers appear committed to developing young players in the secondary. Rookie Chau Smith-Wade, drafted last year, started four games and showed promise as a slot corner. General manager Dan Morgan has emphasized the team’s focus on youth development, stating, “We have some young guys on defense that we’re excited about.” This move suggests the team is prioritizing long-term growth over veteran stopgaps.
Financial Strategy and Future Moves
Beyond performance concerns, Jackson’s release is part of Carolina’s larger financial strategy. The Panthers now have approximately $30 million in cap space, which could help them extend standout cornerback Jaycee Horn or re-sign Mike Jackson, who started all 17 games last season. Additionally, the team has the flexibility to explore free agency or use the NFL Draft to bolster their defensive backfield.
What’s Next for Carolina?
With the new league year beginning on March 12, the Panthers have multiple options. They could pursue a veteran free agent, rely on their young core, or invest in a top draft prospect. Regardless of their next move, it’s clear that Carolina is focused on building a competitive defense for the future.
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