Healthy Renfrow Ready for NFL Comeback, Credits Clemson in Return to Football

In an interview with WYFF’s Mark Whiteman, Renfrow shared that he spent a lot of time at Clemson while training for his NFL return and attributed the supportive environment for helping him keep a positive outlook while recovering from a major health obstacle.

“There was a time I’d go over there [Clemson] three times a week. I’d get a workout in, play some pickleball with some of the coaches,” Renfrow said. “Just kind of getting back to the competitive nature. Having fun around football and a group of guys, it gave me some positive attitude... I don’t know if I could’ve done it without my family and Clemson right there as well.”

Spending a year away from professional football usually comes with an adjustment period, but Renfrow has already made some impressive plays at Panthers training camp and looks to have a real shot at earning a roster spot.

According to Panthers head coach Dave Canales, Renfrow is already resembling the same player who once caught 103 passes for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns in a single season with the Oakland Raiders.

“He looks great. It's the Hunter Renfrow I remember, he looks healthy. He’s really playing at top form right now, I'm really excited to have him here,” Canales said. “It’s a great story that’s unfolding right in front of our eyes.”

Although he’s only been part of the Panthers organization for just a few months, Renfrow explained that he’s already encountered some high-character individuals that motivate him to push himself, even comparing the atmosphere to his alma mater.

“Sitting through meetings yesterday, you just want to play well for those guys. They are all good people,” he said. “They talk about character first, wanting to be great outside of the building. It feels like I was just back at Clemson.”

It’s been a long road to get to this point, and he’ll have to keep proving himself to lock in a roster spot. But if he keeps this up, Renfrow’s NFL journey might just be entering its next chapter.

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