The Carolina Panthers are maneuvering to create salary cap space ahead of free agency, with the release of Dane Jackson being one of the first steps. They are also looking to extend Austin Corbett's contract, a strategic move to help in their financial planning. However, the true focus shifts to cornerback Jaycee Horn, who is set to enter the final year of his rookie deal with a significant cap hit of over $12 million. The Panthers are reportedly interested in a long-term deal for Horn, but concerns about his injury history complicate negotiations.

As a recent Pro Bowler, Horn's value is clear, yet comparisons to contracts like Pat Surtain II’s four-year, $96 million deal raise questions about how much the Panthers are willing to spend. With the potential to save significant cap space through an extension, the Panthers face pressure to retain Horn while managing financial risks associated with his injuries. Analysts speculate that a failure to secure a deal could signal a significant setback for the franchise, especially with Horn finally showcasing his potential on the field.

The Carolina Panthers have begun the process of trimming their roster to create cap space ahead of free agency. Veteran cornerback Dane Jackson has been released, yielding over $3 million in cap relief, signaling that more cuts are expected. Among the prime candidates is running back Miles Sanders, whose performance has dipped following a Pro Bowl season with the Eagles. Releasing him could free up over $5 million. The Panthers are also considering cuts for defensive linemen Shy Tuttle and A'Shawn Robinson, both of whom could offer significant cap savings. However, cutting established players like Jadeveon Clowney or Adam Thielen seems less likely due to the impact they have on the team’s performance.

Dane Jackson, a former seventh-round pick by the Buffalo Bills, finds himself on the free-agent market yet again after being released by the Carolina Panthers. With the Bills facing a vacancy at cornerback, a reunion seems plausible. Last season, Jackson struggled with injuries after signing a two-year, $8.5 million deal but previously established himself as a starter in Buffalo's defense. His familiarity with the team and the defensive system could make him a valuable asset for depth, especially given the challenges faced by first-round pick Kaiir Elam.

Jackson's last two seasons in Buffalo saw him make 20 starts, amassing three interceptions and 28 passes defensed. As the Bills look to bolster their secondary, bringing back Jackson could not only fill the immediate need but also provide a reliable backup option as they navigate free agency and potential losses on the defensive front.

With limited cap space and a dire need for defensive improvement, the Carolina Panthers have started making moves this offseason. The first significant change was the release of cornerback Dane Jackson, which saved the team $3.3 million. Jackson, who played only nine games last season, did not make the impact expected after being acquired via trade. This initial cut paves the way for further roster adjustments and potential cuts for other underperformers.

As the Panthers look to rebuild, this cut symbolizes the beginning of a more aggressive approach to reshaping the team's defense. With more cuts likely to follow, including speculations around Miles Sanders, the team's strategy will be crucial in enhancing their roster for the next season.

As the NFL offseason begins, teams like the Carolina Panthers face tough decisions regarding player cuts to manage their salary cap effectively. Led by general manager Dan Morgan, the Panthers have several veterans on the chopping block, including running back Miles Sanders, who could save the team over $5 million if released. Another candidate is cornerback Dane Jackson, with a potential cap savings of $3.35 million.

Unexpectedly, outside linebacker DJ Wonnum and wide receiver Adam Thielen have also emerged as potential cap casualties. Wonnum's impactful performance, boasting four sacks in just eight games, stands in stark contrast to the $6.225 million savings the team would realize by cutting him. Similarly, Thielen's recent success, including five touchdowns and 615 yards, might not be enough to secure his spot, as releasing him could yield $6.3 million in cap space.