Mike Jackson Sr.’s return window opens with his Panthers payday at stake

The Carolina Panthers have dealt with some significant injury issues this season, but the cavalry is now returning. And there might be no more important return than veteran cornerback Mike Jackson Sr.

Losing both Jackson and Jaycee Horn in Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns was a bitter blow. It immediately took away arguably the league's best cornerback tandem, leaving the Panthers relying on unproven young players or veterans on the proverbial downslope of their careers.

Jackson's groin injury was serious enough for surgery, landing him on injured reserve. He has yet to play a competitive down since, but his 21-day return window is now open heading into a crucial Week 10 road trip to the…