4 Panthers Undrafted Free Agents Who Can Make the 53-Man Roster
By Joe Summers
2. Jalen Coker - WR, Holy Cross
I'm highly optimistic about Jalen Coker's potential fit on the 53-man roster. Terrace Marshall Jr. is likely on his way off the roster after this season and Coker led the nation with 15 receiving TDs at Holy Cross in 2023.
He was a First-Team FCS All-American, catching 59 passes for 1,040 yards and the aforementioned TDs. It was his third straight year with over 50 catches and Coker's dynamic athleticism should translate well to the pros.
Coker is listed at 6'3" though measured at 6'1" with a 42.5-inch vertical that tied for the best of any player at the combine. He was in the 80th percentile in the ten-yard drill as well, so he's got quickness to pair with his ideal length and leaping ability.
Thanks to Justin, I know Jalen Coker's favorite route is the 10-yard out
— Edgar Salmingo, Jr. ✌🏽 (@PanthersAnalyst) May 2, 2024
"I ran a bunch of those routes at Holy Cross. I always found a way to get open. I got us a bunch of first downs on that route. It’s a certified chain mover. That’s definitely one of my favorite routes." https://t.co/AfE8FgTPj7 pic.twitter.com/5SK7iMAcMn
Carolina gave Coker $225,000 in guaranteed salary, proving the Panthers are serious about giving him a chance to make the roster. Bryce Young needs reliable receivers he can trust and I believe Coker can develop into that role.
Rookie minicamp and offseason programs will be a great test for the Holy Cross star. He played against lesser competition in college, so it'll be interesting to see how he matches up.
Personally, I like to bet on talent, athleticism, and production. Coker checks every box and is a player to watch this summer.