Carolina Panthers let another 2023 contributor walk into 2024 NFL free agency

It is Groundhog Day in Charlotte. 

After cutting ties with wide receiver and punt returner Ihmir Smith-Marsette, the Carolina Panthers don't plan to tender tight end Giovanni Ricci, who will now walk into free agency, Joseph Person of The Athletic reported Friday. 

In the choice not to tender Ricci, he will now be an unrestricted free agent. 

Ricci got his break in the NFL as an undrafted fullback in 2020.

He transitioned to tight end, where in the last two seasons he has nine catches. 

Seldom used and now he is free to play wherever he would like come the 2024 NFL season.