Mike Jackson, a cornerback with the Carolina Panthers, was one of the defense’s few bright spots and might receive a large increase in the summer.
One of the few defensive bright lights for the Carolina Panthers in 2024 was cornerback Mike Jackson. The cornerback was acquired by the Panthers just before the season in exchange for rookie linebacker Michael Barrett, after he had spent the majority of the offseason with the Seattle Seahawks. The former fifth-round pick delivered starting-caliber performance for pennies on the dollar, so this deal paid out.
With two interceptions, 17 passes defended, 76 tackles, and a 68.0 PFF grade—the 42nd-best rating among 118 qualifying players—Jackson concluded the season after starting and playing in all 17 games. He is a starter cornerback who deserves a raise as a free agent, even if he will not be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Jackson is expected to sign a three-year contract worth $23 million on the free market, according to Spotrac.
The Carolina Panthers could spend money on Mike Jackson because they are in dire need of defensive assistance. The team’s expected cap space is only $20.8 million, though, and they may choose to spend that money on the front seven. Don’t be shocked if Jackson signs with the Baltimore Ravens or New Orleans Saints if he leaves for better opportunities elsewhere.
The New Orleans Saints’ summer strategy under assumed head coach Kellen Moore is unknown. On the one hand, the club lacks skill, is $54 million above the anticipated pay cap, and the majority of its talented players are beyond 30. It’s long past time for this franchise to be rebuilt, and maybe New Orleans will finally face reality and acknowledge that one or two poor seasons are necessary to reset the payroll.
General Manager Mickey Loomis does not think rebuilding is an option, but the 2024 season could have been the final nail in the coffin. He needs to start by addressing the cornerback situation if he hopes to keep this squad afloat. The Saints need to find a cost-effective starter to replace second-round selection Kool-Aid McKinstry, especially since Marshon Lattimore is in Washington and upcoming free agency Paulson Adebo is anticipated to get a huge contract. Mike Jackson won’t cost a fortune, and it should be a plus to take him from the Panthers, a division foe.
Mike Jackson, an upcoming free agent, might be taken by the Saints and Ravens from the Panthers.
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