The Carolina Panthers are one of many team struggling to fit all of their talent on the 53-man roster. Cut day is no easy feat for organizations, especially one that is looking for their first playoff appearance since 2017.
Decisions had to be made, which is why the team decided it was best to move on from a veteran receiver. At 29-years-old, the Panthers believe his best days are behind him, including a 1,038 yard season in 2021.
Hunter Renfrow Fails to Make the Carolina Panthers Roster
Coming into the season, ESPN listed Hunter Renfrow behind only Tetairoa McMillan, Adam Thielen, Xavier Legette, and Jalen Coker. Now, the seven-year veteran will have to complete his comeback elsewhere. Tom Pelissero broke the news of his release.
The #Panthers released veteran WR Hunter Renfrow.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 26, 2025
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Renfrow missed the entire 2024 season due to health issues. After being released by the Las Vegas Raiders, he opted to take the year to get himself back in the best shape possible. The Panthers signed him to a deal in April, one that didn’t make it to the regular season.
While his 2021 numbers were stellar, Renfrow showed clear regression in 2022-23. He played just 10 games in ’22, by far the lowest of his career. Even though he rebounded by playing all 17 the next season, he was held to a career low 255 yards.
The 2019 5th round pick saw limited action in the Panthers preseason games. He hauled in four receptions for 12 yards. Leaving a lot to be desired, the team believed that it was best to move forward without him.
A spot on the practice squad could always open up for a player like Renfrow. He’s a proven veteran, and at this point is a hungry WR who could fill a spot on numerous rosters.
Carolina Panthers Offensive Outlook
Bryce Young is going to heavily rely on rookie McMillan this season. Thielen remains a viable option, should he not be traded to the Minnesota Vikings. Dave Canales and his crew have seen enough out of the receivers they have to justify Renfrow not making the 53-man.
After winning five games last season, one would have to assume the baseline in Carolina is seven or eight. The NFC South remains winnable, should they be able to get over the hump that is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As long as Young proves the second-half of last season wasn’t a fluke, this team could surprise some people.
Depending on how this offense operates, McMillan has the potential to be one of the top receivers in the league. He’s turned heads consistently in practice as the media cannot get enough of 2025’s No. 8 overall pick.
Thielen may be 35-years-old but he’s had a career resurgence, of sorts, in Carolina. With over 1,600 yards in his last two seasons, Young has the potential to see a pair of 1,000 yard receivers, depending on how he shares the ball.
Another receiver hungry for the ball is Legette. Last year’s No. 32 overall pick stands 6’3” 227-pounds. The 24-year-old finished his rookie season with 497 yards and four touchdowns. He’ll look to build on those numbers as the Panthers have themselves a solid foundation at the wide receiver position.
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