As of Friday night, the Carolina Panthers have added nine new faces to their roster through free agency. And the first of those faces to lock down his uniform number has chosen some familiar digits.
Per tight end Hayden Hurst, tight end Hayden Hurst—who signed a three-year, $21.75 million deal with the team—will be suiting up in Charlotte as No. 81. Hurst previously wore the number back in his college days at the University of South Carolina, where he played from 2015 to 2017.
During that time in Columbia, S.C., Hurst reeled in an even 100 receptions for 1,281 yards and three touchdowns. The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder was then selected in the first round of the 2018 NFL draft by the Baltimore Ravens, who had the No. 81 waiting for him.
Hurst was able to get his number not only in his first pro stop, but also in his second with the Atlanta Falcons. He would, though, make a brief detour this past season as No. 88 for the Cincinnati Bengals.
This will, additionally, be the first time in franchise history that the No. 81 is not worn by a wide receiver. Some notable Panthers to have already donned the digits include Rocket Ismail, Donald Hayes and Ricky Proehl.