Will Lee III’s Week 6 breakout makes Panthers’ draft steal harder to doubt

Carolina Panthers rookie cornerback Will Lee III delivered a breakout performance in a Week 6 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles. Dean Jones writes that the fourth-round draft pick excelled while stepping up as the team's primary cornerback in place of injured starters Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr. Operating as the defensive focal point, Lee primarily matched up against Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith.

Jones argues that Lee is proving to be a major draft steal for general manager Dan Morgan after being selected at No. 129 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite conceding one touchdown catch, Lee recorded multiple pass breakups and effective run stops in coordinator Ejiro Evero's defense, solidifying his role as a potential long-term cornerstone for Carolina.