The Panthers secondary was arguably the team’s weakest link in 2018. If Carolina is going to have another bounce-back odd year, the team will have to see serious improvement from a few key defensive backs. One of them is second-year cornerback Donte Jackson.
As a rookie, Jackson showcased the magnificent game speed and ball skills that made him a standout defender at LSU. Heading into year two, the Panthers need him to take on a larger role. Here’s what Jackson had to say about it, per Brendan Marks at the Charlotte Observer.
Obviously, the guys ask for a little more out of me this year. . . I kind of have a bigger role in the defense, even though I played a big role as a rookie. The older guys are really looking at me like a veteran leader now. So that’s kind of something different for me to get used to.
Jackson recorded four interceptions, one sack and four tackles for a loss in his first season. However, he also got beat over the top for big gains too many times, most notably against the Steelers.
Playing with more discipline and awareness will enable Jackson to improve more than anything else. Another offseason of work should help. If the game slows down for him, it will show.
