Panthers Activate Xavier Legette From IR

Legette was a first-round pick (No. 32) in 2024, but after back-to-back mediocre seasons, this is a pivotal year for him. After all, the Panthers have to decide on Legette’s fifth-year option in the offseason. As things stand, it looks likely they will decline it. The injury Legette suffered in Week 2 (on a 55-yard reception) has prevented him from making an argument for the team to pick up the option. In parts of two games, the South Carolina product has caught two of five targets for 64 yards.

The reigning NFC South champion Panthers are off to an unimpressive 3-5 start, but that’s still tied with the Saints for the best record in a weak division. First place is at stake in the teams’ meeting this week in New Orleans, where Legette could rejoin a receiving corps that has gotten quality production from starters Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker. However, nobody else has offered much at the position.

While Brycen Tremayne (42.86%) and John Metchie (32.68%) rank third and fourth among Panthers receivers in offensive snap share, they have combined for just 21 catches. Quarterback Bryce Young, who is enjoying a career year, has turned to tight ends Darren Waller and Tommy Tremble far more frequently than Tremayne and Metchie. Waller and Tremble have combined for 44 grabs and seven touchdowns. If that continues, Legette may not be a key part of the Panthers’ passing game when he comes back. He’ll have to “earn a role,” according to ESPN’s David Newton.

Legette’s activation from IR is the Panthers’ third of the season, leaving them with five more. Carolina designated cornerback Mike Jackson and running back Jonathon Brooks for return earlier this week, but the team didn’t activate either player on Saturday. With Jackson set to miss his sixth straight game as he recovers from groin surgery, the Panthers elevated cornerbacks Marco Wilson and Corey Thornton from their practice squad.