Cornerback Brandon Boykin To Visit Panthers Monday
/Nickel corner is an area of concern for the Carolina Panthers. When Bene' Benwikere fractured his leg late last season, the Panthers had to turn to guys who weren't in the league at the time. Now, Coach Ron Rivera has signaled that Carolina is looking to move Bene' to outside corner with Josh Norman. Brandon Boykin could be the perfect fit, at the right cost, for Gettleman and Rivera to address this need.
Boykin has already been in the league for four years, and he's only 25 years old. He's also one of the few cornerbacks left in free agency. Not only does he have experience, he's durable. He hasn't missed as a pro. He hasn't started many either though
Boykin has started 7 out of 64 games in his NFL career. Interestingly, he has more INTs (8) than he does starts. One was for a TD, and he also has 36 passes defensed, 5 forced fumbles, and one sack. At 5' 10" he's not the best match up outside, which is likely why he didn't start a lot of games. Carolina wouldn't be looking for him to play on the outside, he's just looking for a good fit.
If all goes well with Monday's visit, Gettleman and the Panthers would likely look to strike up a quick, but affordable deal to tie up another loose end before the draft. By now, we know how Gettleman likes to set up for the draft with free agency.
By Tripp Morgan
Follow him on Twitter, @TrippMorgan6