The Panthers defense is going to look much different next year than it did this season. That doesn’t mean everyone should be thrown overboard, though. One under-the-radar piece who’s worth keeping around is cornerback Ross Cockrell.
According to Next Gen Stats, Cockrell only allowed 6.3 yards per target. That tied him with Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis for the fourth-lowest average in the league among defensive backs.
Cockrell appeared in 14 games in 2019 and started 11. He posted 48 solo tackles, two interceptions and eight pass breakups.
His coverage wasn’t perfect – Pro Football Focus gave him a 61.3 coverage grade – but he did a good job of limiting yards after the catch. Cockrell was also solid in run support.
Starting him 11 games is probably not ideal. He is worth considering as a backup, though. Cockrell’s contract expires at the end of this season, so the Panthers will have to pay him if he’s in their long-term plans.
