The Carolina Panthers are making strides with their quarterback situation, as Bryce Young, the former No. 1 pick, rebounded effectively after a rocky start to the season. Initially benched for Andy Dalton, Young returned to reclaim the starting role and showcased significant improvement, leading the Panthers to consider him a viable option moving forward. This shift allows the organization to concentrate on other areas needing attention, specifically in free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft.

Expectations are high for the Panthers in the upcoming free agency period. They are reportedly targeting high-profile players, particularly in the safety position, with names like Jevon Holland and Camryn Bynum on their radar. Additionally, they are keen to secure a contract extension for cornerback Jaycee Horn, anticipating a surge in cornerback contracts across the league. Financial constraints pose a challenge, as the Panthers currently have about $29.8 million in cap space.

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 are facing tough decisions regarding Jaycee Horn, their standout cornerback, after a season marred by injuries. Despite making the Pro Bowl in 2023 with impressive stats, including 68 tackles and an interception, Horn's durability raises concerns as he has missed 31 games over four seasons. With just one year left on his contract and potential demands over $20 million annually, the Panthers must weigh the risks of extending Horn versus trading him for a promising return in the market.

Given his stellar performance, coupled with injury history, the Panthers may opt for a trade if they doubt Horn's long-term reliability. Cornerbacks command significant value, and this could be a pivotal moment for Carolina. They need to address their defense effectively, especially after a historically poor season.

The Carolina Panthers are in a solid position at cornerback with Pro Bowler Jaycee Horn leading the charge. Alongside him, Chau Smith-Wade shows promise as a nickel corner, while Mike Jackson is quietly effective on the right side. Despite this strength, the team is projected to still target cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft, with Jalon Walker from Georgia being a notable candidate at the eighth overall pick. Tony Pauline's mock draft highlights the Panthers' interest in Michigan's Will Johnson, who is considered the second-best corner in the class. Johnson's impressive stats, including nine interceptions in 32 games, mark him as a top prospect, with the ability to excel in various defensive roles.

Should the Panthers miss out on Johnson, other intriguing options like Shavon Revel Jr. from East Carolina and Trey Amos from Ole Miss are also on their radar. The team's strategy reflects a keen awareness that depth at cornerback remains crucial in today's NFL, where offensive threats are ever-evolving.