3 Most Likely Panthers Draft Targets With the No. 8 Pick

3. Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

As we previously mentioned, the Panthers' pass defense was the worst in the league last season. Cornerback Jaycee Horn is their top player in the secondary and had a solid season. In a career-high 15 games, Horn had 68 total tackles, 13 pass breakups, and one interception. He logged a 64.5 overall grade per PFF.

Mike Jackson also had an underrated season, logging 76 total tackles and two interceptions while being tied for 3rd in pass deflections (17). He had a 68 overall grade and a 68.1 coverage grade, according to PFF. Despite these solid numbers, he's going to be an unrestricted free agent.

The Panthers will need another option in the secondary, and Will Johnson out of Michigan is a good option.

Johnson has outstanding size, listed at 6'2, 202 pounds. The Michigan native is a patient, aware, and instinctive defender. He has no problem excelling in both man and zone coverage. Johnson is also a secure tackler.

He missed multiple games this season with a foot injury, which caused his production to take a dip in 2024. But over three seasons as a Wolverine, Johnson had 57 solo tackles, 10 pass deflections, nine interceptions, and three defensive touchdowns.

According to PFF, during the 2022 season, he had an 88.2 overall grade, 78.9 overall grade in 2023, and 77.7 overall grade in 2024.

Johnson is an elite playmaker and would help the Panthers form a dynamic duo at cornerback with Horn for years to come.

More Panthers news and rumors: