3 Best Remaining Free Agents the Panthers Can Sign
By Cem Yolbulan
Xavien Howard, CB
Another area of immediate need for the Panthers is in the defensive backfield. The cornerback rotation is thin outside of Jaycee Horn despite the addition of Dane Jackson. Troy Hill is a decent option at slot, but the Panthers' options on the outside opposite of Horn are limited.
A veteran addition to the cornerback rotation would be welcomed. And there are still decent options there on the market. The return of Stephon Gilmore has been bandied about regularly but there doesn't seem to be much progress on that front.
Outside of Gilmore, the best cornerback available is the former Miami Dolphin Xavien Howard.
Howard saw a bit of a decline last season, but he had made three straight Pro Bowls before then. He will turn 31 before the start of the 2024 campaign, so his decline could further accelerate. However, Howard's extensive experience could prove very valuable for this young team regardless of the fact that he is past his prime.
Even this version of Xavien Howard should be a clear upgrade over the rest of the Panthers rotation. Carolina doesn't have too much cap space left but if a starting role and an opportunity to mentor a young team is attractive to the four-time Pro Bowler, the Panthers might have a chance to lure him.
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