3 Free Agents the Panthers Should Still Sign Before the NFL Draft

Xavien Howard, CB

The Panthers sent cornerback Donte Jackson to Pittsburgh when acquiring Diontae Johnson, and replaced him with Dane Jackson. They also brought back veteran nickel Troy Hill for their rotation. Jaycee Horn will hopefully have a healthier season after only playing in 6 games in 2023.

So, Carolina may look like it has decent depth at corner, but a clear upgrade on the opposite side of Horn is needed.

Xavien Howard, who is a free agent for the first time in his eight-year career, is still available on the market. Even though his career is on the decline, the four-time Pro Bowler still has plenty of gas left in the tank and would be a solid addition to the Panthers' rotation.

After being a second-round pick for the Miami Dolphins in the 2016 NFL Draft, Howard has consistently been one of the best corners in the NFL, with his peak coming in the 2020 season, when he recorded 10 interceptions, 20 passes defended, and only allowed 48.3 passer rating when targeted.

He continued having Pro Bowl seasons after that despite not reaching those heights again. In 2023, he still played 88% of defensive snaps for Miami, suiting up in 13 games. He didn't make as big of an impact as the Dolphins were hoping for, but he still has a chance to bounce back in Carolina, considering that he is only 30 years old.