Panthers, CB Michael Jackson Have Not Discussed Extension

Jackson logged over 1,200 defensive snaps during his debut Carolina campaign. Team and player worked out a two-year deal last March as a result, and it represented a raise from the rate Jackson played on in 2024. He is midway through that pact, scheduled to collect $4.8MM this season with a cap charge of $7.8MM.

Having again operated as a full-time starter last year, Jackson is a logical candidate for another new Carolina pact. If one is to be worked out, though, it appears it will have to happen after the coming campaign. Jackson recently noted (via The Athletic’s Joe Person) no contract talks have taken place this summer with the Panthers.

Carolina already has one major CB deal on the books, of course. Jaycee Horn inked a $25MM-per-year extension last year, and he is set to remain one of the position’s top earners for the foreseeable future. Expectations will again be high for the two-time Pro Bowler, but another strong showing on Jackson’s part could set him up for a spike in compensation.

“My job is just to come play ball,” Jackson said when speaking about his financial situation. “I’m on the tip of the iceberg, but I’m so far away… If I do what I’m supposed to, regardless, the money gonna come, no matter where it’s at.”

Indeed, the 29-year-old could be among the top free agents at his position if 2026 plays out similar to last year. Jackson led the NFL in pass deflections with 19 and set a new career high with four interceptions while being targeted far more often than Horn. For the second year in a row, Jackson also logged a full slate of games and topped 1,000 snaps.

It will be interesting to see if extension talks occur at any point during the remainder of training camp or through the start of the regular season. If not, Jackson’s showings in his third Panthers campaign will be worth watching closely given its impact on deciding his financial outlook.