Panthers Cornerback was one of the few bright spots on defense for the 2024 Carolina Panthers. After spending most of the offseason with the Seattle Seahawks, the Panthers acquired him just before the season in exchange for rookie linebacker Michael Barrett. This trade proved to be a success, as he provided solid starting-caliber play for a very affordable price.
Starting and appearing in all 17 games, he finished the season with two interceptions, 17 passes defended, 76 tackles, and a solid 68.0 PFF grade, ranking 42nd among 118 eligible players. While he may not be a Hall of Famer, he has proven to be a reliable starting cornerback who will likely see a pay raise in free agency. Spotrac estimates Jackson could receive a three-year, $23 million deal on the open market.
With the Carolina Panthers in need of defensive upgrades, they may consider investing in Jackson. However, the team has just $20.8 million in projected cap space and may prioritize strengthening their front seven. If Jackson moves on, the New Orleans Saints or Baltimore Ravens could be potential landing spots.
Saints, Ravens Could Take Impending Free Agent Mike Jackson From Panthers
The New Orleans Saints’ offseason approach is uncertain, especially with presumed head coach Kellen Moore at the helm. The team is currently $54 million over the projected salary cap, has limited talent, and many of their key players are aging. A rebuild has been overdue, but General Manager Mickey Loomis has historically avoided such moves. However, to keep the team competitive, Loomis may need to accept a reset, potentially leading to a few rough seasons.
One area that urgently needs attention is the cornerback position. With Marshon Lattimore leaving for Washington and Paulson Adebo set to hit free agency with a potential big contract, the Saints need a cost-effective starter to pair with second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry. Mike Jackson could be an ideal target. He’s proven to be a reliable starter without demanding a hefty salary, and stealing him from a division rival like the Panthers would be an added bonus.
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The Baltimore Ravens already have two reliable cornerbacks in veteran Marlon Humphrey and 2024 first-round pick Nate Wiggins. While this duo is solid enough to handle most passing attacks, they play in a division with Joe Burrow and face elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Justin Herbert in the AFC. So, while a top-tier cornerback isn’t a must, the Ravens could definitely use a reliable third option to bolster their secondary.
Mike Jackson could be the perfect fit for this role. The Panthers free agent would help round out one of the NFL’s deepest secondaries. The Ravens recognized the need for another corner when they traded for Tre’Davious White, but White didn’t have much left in the tank. Jackson could start opposite Wiggins, allowing Humphrey to slide into the slot in three-receiver sets. With the increasing emphasis on passing, Jackson’s presence could make a big impact, potentially tipping a few close games in Baltimore’s favor.