Panthers Release Veteran WR Hunter Renfrow
Panthers Release Veteran WR Hunter Renfrow
The Carolina Panthers made a surprising move on Tuesday, releasing veteran wide receiver Hunter Renfrow as part of their final roster cuts. The 29-year-old had been a key player for the Panthers since joining the team in 2018, but struggled with injuries and inconsistency over the past few seasons.
A Struggle to Regain Form
Despite having a strong start to his career in Carolina, Renfrow's production has declined in recent years. In 2020, he only played in seven games due to injuries and recorded just 13 receptions for 163 yards and one touchdown. This year, he was unable to fully bounce back and make an impact during training camp and the preseason.
A Tough Decision for the Panthers
The decision to release Renfrow was a difficult one for the Panthers, as he had been a reliable target for quarterback Sam Darnold and a veteran leader in the locker room. However, with a crowded wide receiver group and a need to make room for young talent, the team ultimately decided to part ways with Renfrow.
About the Organizations Mentioned
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, competing in the National Football Conference (NFC) South division of the National Football League (NFL)[1][3][4]. The organization is responsible for fielding a team in the NFL, managing football operations, and engaging with a broad regional fan base across North and South Carolina. Home games are played at Bank of America Stadium in uptown Charlotte, a venue that also hosts major concerts and events, reflecting the franchise’s business and community impact[3][4]. The Panthers were awarded an NFL expansion franchise on October 26, 1993, becoming the league’s 29th team and the first new franchise since 1976[2][4]. Founded by former NFL player Jerry Richardson, the team began play in 1995 and quickly distinguished itself by posting a 7–9 record—the best ever for an NFL expansion team in its inaugural season[1][2][7]. The Panthers’ early success continued with a 12–4 season and NFC West title in 1996, reaching the NFC Championship Game in just their second year[1][4][5]. After a period of rebuilding, the team surged again in 2003, winning the NFC Championship and advancing to Super Bowl XXXVIII, narrowly losing to the New England Patriots[1][2][4]. The Panthers returned to the Super Bowl in 2015 (Super Bowl 50), falling to the Denver Broncos[1][2][4]. Over nearly three decades, the Panthers have reached the playoffs eight times and appeared in two Super Bowls, though they have yet to win a championship[3][4]. The team has produced notable players such as Cam Newton, Steve Smith, and Julius Peppers, and has seen several Hall of Famers associated with the franchise[3][5]. As of 2023, the Panthers’ cumulative regular season record stands at 214–252–1
