Yesterday Panthers general manager Marty Hurney admitted on the radio that signing a veteran cornerback was his top priority right now as far as adding to the roster. Today, Hurney followed through. The team has agreed to terms with former Saints cornerback Eli Apple, who was a first-round pick by the Giants back in 2016.
In some ways, Apple was Hurney’s most logical choice. The top cornerback on the market was Logan Ryan, but with very limited cap space the Panthers couldn’t afford to sign him. Apple was the next-best name on a very short list of corners who could possibly help out the depth chart.
Then again, adding Apple at this point in the offseason has a slight hint of desperation to it. The safer move would have been to bring back Ross Cockrell. By taking a chance on Apple – who has baggage both on and off the field – Hurney made another admission: the Panthers were absolutely desperate to add more talent at this position.
Apple hasn’t always lived up to his potential, but there’s a reason why the Giants were willing to use a top-10 pick on him. He will arrive as the most physical gifted cornerback on the roster outside of Donte Jackson. At the combine, Apple ran a 4.40 second 40-yard dash. Bringing him in continues the speed theme Matt Rhule has been building on the back end of his defense.
We don’t know how much Apple is signing for yet. According to the Charlotte Observer, it’s a one-year deal, though.
We can probably safely bet this is a prove-it type of contract, especially since Apple is coming off a rough 2019 season, easily the worst of his career. He was targeted 76 times last year, allowing 48 completions for an uncomforably high 63.2%. Opposing quarterbacks posted a 100.9 passer rating on those attempts. Most of Apple’s career that number has been in the 70s. He also gave up 200 total yards after the catch, the most since his rookie season.
Obviously, Apple has some work to do to repair his reputation. Signing him is a gamble that could pay off for both sides.
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