The Carolina Panthers are returning a key wide receiver to their roster after trading Adam Thielen to the Minnesota Vikings on Wednesday.
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Panthers are re-signing former Pro Bowl wideout Hunter Renfrow, whom they had cut earlier in the week.
Panthers are re-signing WR Hunter Renfrow to their active roster, per sources. Renfrow played at Clemson, and now will get to play at Carolina.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 30, 2025
In a corresponding move, Carolina WR Jalen Coker is being placed on IR due to a quad injury. pic.twitter.com/ooe0AHUV5Y
The Panthers needed help at receiver for quarterback Bryce Young after losing Thielen, who led the team in receiving in 2024. Carolina's top three receivers entering the regular season are rookie first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette.
According to Schefter, however, Coker is being placed on injured reserve due to a quad injury, which likely motivated Carolina to re-sign Renfrow.
Renfrow initially signed with the Panthers in April, and despite a strong showing in training camp, Carolina prioritized youth at the receiver position as it rebuilds its offense. The Panthers were hopeful that Renfrow would return, as he had drawn interest from several teams this week.
The experienced receiver should play a significant role early in the year, something Young needs after losing Thielen.
The 29-year-old had his best year in 2021 with the Las Vegas Raiders when he recorded 103 receptions for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns.
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