NFL Rumors: Panthers to Trade or Release CB Donte Jackson, Save $5.9M for Salary Cap

The Carolina Panthers are expected to trade or release cornerback Donte Jackson, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

The veteran has a $4 million roster bonus due on March 16, which Fowler reports should spark action. The release would save the Panthers $5.9 million in cap space and $10.5 million if there is a designation after June 1, according to Fowler.

Jackson, a second-round pick in the 2018 draft out of LSU, recorded 59 tackles and five pass deflections last season.

In his first five seasons in the NFL, Jackson pulled in 14 interceptions, including four his rookie year, but did not record one last season. The 28-year-old has struggled with injuries throughout his career, missing 20 games between 2019 and 2023. His worst injury came in 2022 when he suffered a torn Achilles that limited him to just nine games.

Now, Jackson will look to find a new home and return to being a productive defensive back in 2024.

For the Panthers, they are looking to turn things around after a 2-15 season in 2023. Carolina has an estimated $36.19 million in cap space, per Spotrac, with the chance to add some more flexibility by parting ways with Jackson.

The Panthers will need to replace Jackson, who started last season opposite to Jaycee Horn. A handful of cornerback options are expected to be free agents this offseason, and with the added cap space Carolina could pick up a solid option.