Panthers’ Projected for $23 Million Deal, Potential Landing Spots Include Saints, Ravens
Carolina Panthers cornerback Mike Jackson emerged as one of the team’s few defensive standouts in 2024 and is now poised for a lucrative free-agent contract. After spending the offseason with the Seattle Seahawks, Jackson was traded to Carolina just before the season in exchange for rookie linebacker Michael Barrett. The move proved to be a success for the Panthers, as the former fifth-round pick delivered solid performances at an affordable price.
Jackson played all 17 games, recording two interceptions, 17 pass breakups, 76 tackles, and earning a 68.0 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade—ranking 42nd out of 118 eligible players. While not a superstar, he provided reliable starting-caliber play. As he hits free agency, Spotrac projects him to land a three-year, $23 million contract.
Carolina has a pressing need to bolster its defense, but with only $20.8 million in projected cap space, the team may prioritize investments in the front seven. If the Panthers decide not to re-sign Jackson, the New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens are two potential landing spots.
Could Jackson Join the Saints or Ravens?
The New Orleans Saints’ offseason approach remains uncertain under presumed new head coach Kellen Moore. The team is currently $54 million over the salary cap and faces a talent shortage, with several key players aging. A full-scale rebuild seems inevitable, but General Manager Mickey Loomis has historically resisted such moves.
If the Saints aim to remain competitive, upgrading the secondary will be a priority. With Marshon Lattimore now in Washington and Paulson Adebo likely commanding a big contract elsewhere, the team needs a cost-effective starting cornerback alongside second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry. Jackson fits the bill as an affordable option, and acquiring him from a division rival would be an added benefit.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens already have a strong secondary with Marlon Humphrey and first-round pick Nate Wiggins, but depth is crucial in a division featuring Joe Burrow and a conference with elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Justin Herbert.
Baltimore recognized the need for another cornerback when they traded for Tre’Davious White, but his performance suggested he no longer has much left in the tank. Jackson could step in as a reliable outside corner, allowing Humphrey to shift into the slot when facing three-receiver formations. His addition could be the difference in crucial matchups, helping the Ravens maintain one of the NFL’s strongest defensive units.
Leave a Reply