The Carolina Panthers are adding some depth to their secondary after signing former Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Jakorian Bennett to their practice squad. Bennett was released by Philadelphia earlier this week, but Carolina wasted little time bringing him in, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
The move could give Bennett an opportunity to get back on the field sooner rather than later. The Panthers' cornerback room is thin right now, creating a potential opening for the former fourth-round pick to earn a spot on the active roster.
Depending on how things develop, Bennett could have a chance to contribute as soon as this weekend or next. Carolina needs all the help it can get in the secondary, and adding a player with NFL experience gives the team another option as it works through its current depth issues.
Bennett has recorded seven tackles, including six solo stops, and one pass deflection this season. Those numbers don't jump off the page, but he has experience from his time with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he spent two seasons before joining Philadelphia.
During his two years in Las Vegas, Bennett totaled 58 tackles and 11 pass deflections. He has shown that he can contribute at the NFL level, and Carolina will have an opportunity to see whether he can provide a spark to its secondary.
The Eagles have continued making moves with players they apparently don't view as part of their long-term plans, and Bennett is the latest to find himself on the outside. Fortunately for him, the Panthers have a need at cornerback and are willing to give him another opportunity.
Bennett will have to make the most of it, but Carolina could be an ideal landing spot for a player looking to get his career back on track.