The Panthers are keeping a key member of their 2021 defense. Carolina is re-signing cornerback Donte Jackson reports, ProFootballFocus.com’s Doug Kyed (via Twitter).
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports (on Twitter) that it’s a three-year deal for the defensive back. The three-year pact is worth $35.1MM, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport (on Twitter).
Jackson’s 2021 campaign ended early thanks to a groin injury, but he still managed to have one of the best seasons of his career despite starting only 12 games. The cornerback finished this past season with 61 tackles, 10 passes defended, and two interceptions. The 2018 second-round pick has spent his entire career with the Panthers, collecting 12 interceptions in 55 games (51 starts).
The Panthers secondary had a handful of big-name free agents, but the team made it clear that they were prioritizing Jackson. The club has not shut the door on a new contract for CB Stephon Gilmore, but the front office was naturally focused on retaining Jackson, who is five years younger than Gilmore. Jackson also generated some interest from the Jets before they signed D.J. Reed.