Corey Thornton's rapid emergence from an undrafted afterthought to make the 53-man roster was among the Carolina Panthers' best feel-good stories of summer. Now, he's taking this positive momentum into a competitive setting.
Thornton surged into consideration almost instantly. His blend of size, length, and athleticism is precisely what coordinator Ejiro Evero looks for in his defensive backs. The Panthers have taken their time with the Louisville product, but his workload ramped up considerably in Week 11 against the Atlanta Falcons.
With fellow rookie Lathan Ransom out through injury, Thornton played 70 percent of defensive snaps.