Panthers look at two intriguing talents to address team's central concern

Cornerback and outside linebacker are two positions the Carolina Panthers are l ooking to reinforce .

With training camp starting Wednesday, July 24, Panthers general manager Dan Morgan is wasting no time.

The team is working out free-agent outside linebacker Derick Roberson. Joseph Person of The Athletic first reported the news.

Later in the week, the Panthers plan to host free agent cornerback Jerry Jacobs, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler said Monday afternoon.

Jacobs started 12 games with three interceptions and eight pass deflections for Detroit last season. Adding the 26-year-old would answer the pending question Morgan has yet to address in the offseason: What happens at cornerback?

For months, the Panthers flirted with signing five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore. That deal has yet to materialize . Hosting Jacobs indicates Carolina is open to exploring new options, tipping Morgan's hand for the first time all summer.

Overlooking the troubled cornerback position is the health of Jaycee Horn. If healthy, his presence will define how well Carolina competes.

As for Roberson, he last played for the D.C. Defenders in its 2024 UFL season. He registered 32 combined tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.

The Panthers also worked out safety Henry Black, tight end Feleipe Franks, cornerback Kyler McMichael, defensive end Wyatt Ray, cornerback Kiondre Thomas, and safety Trenton Thompson, per the league transaction report .

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