Hunter Renfrow was one of the Panthers’ roster cuts last week, but it soon became clear a Carolina reunion could be worked out. That proved to be the case on Saturday when the veteran wideout was re-signed. 
Renfrow’s bid to return to the NFL saw him join the Panthers this spring. The Myrtle Beach, South Carolina native was out of the league in 2024 due to ulcerative colitis, but he did enough during training camp to warrant attention around the NFL. Panthers head coach Dave Canales noted continued work on his conditioning was a key factor in any future reunion, one which came about following the Adam Thielen trade and Jalen Coker‘s move to injured reserve.
A slot role is in place for Renfrow, who exceled in that capacity during part of his Raiders tenure. The 29-year-old topped 1,000 yards and scored nine touchdowns in 2021, earning a Pro Bowl nod. He was unable to duplicate that production afterwards, resulting in his Vegas release. Renfrow is now in position to resume his career with his hometown team, the only one he considered playing for in recent days.
“I kind of told [my agent] I was going to be here or nowhere,” the Clemson product said about remaining in Carolina (via the team’s website). “I know he told me a few teams, but I think he was getting calls throughout the weekend. But I just told him this is where I wanted to be. Just because this is home for me, this is what I wanted to do.”
The Panthers added a first-round receiver in the form of Xavier Legette last spring. The team went the same route in April, meaning Tetairoa McMillan is positioned to pair with Legette as a starter on the perimeter. Coker will be tasked with handling first-team duties upon return, but in the meantime Renfrow will be able to contribute in the passing game. His new Panthers pact is reportedly worth more than the veteran minimum contract he originally signed, a reflection of the market which existed in this case and Carolina’s immediate need at the receiver spot.
A healthy and productive campaign from Renfrow would provide a boost to the Panthers’ passing game. It would also strengthen his chances of continuing to play beyond 2025, something which was in question until his Carolina return was worked out.