Talk about a plot twist! Hunter Renfrow, once a Pro Bowl sensation, was cut by the Panthers but a practice squad reunion isn’t off the table. Meanwhile, other NFL teams are circling. Will Renfrow land a new deal before Week 1, or will he rejoin Carolina?

The Carolina Panthers have made a significant roster move, waiving one-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, yet a potential reunion remains a strong possibility. Despite his release, the veteran pass-catcher’s journey back to an NFL roster is far from over, with both the Panthers and other teams expressing interest in his services ahead of the upcoming season.

Renfrow’s path to this point has been marked by determination, including an attempt at an NFL comeback during the 2025 offseason. His previous season was sidelined by a battle with ulcerative colitis, making his opportunity with the Carolina Panthers this spring a crucial step in his return to professional football.

Head coach Dave Canales confirmed the ongoing dialogue with Hunter Renfrow, stating, “We’ve been in constant communication with Hunter. We have a couple of things on the table for him, and we’re just going to keep talking.” This indicates a clear desire from the Panthers organization to keep the experienced Wide Receiver within their system, possibly on the Practice Squad.

Canales also offered insight into Renfrow’s performance, noting, “I just want to be able to count on Hunter the whole time. I saw some peaks, and I also saw some dips with his performance.” These observations ultimately contributed to the decision not to include him on the initial 53-man roster amidst a competitive landscape of younger talent.

The Panthers’ receiving corps has seen an infusion of youth, with 2024 and ’25 first-round draft picks now positioned to take on substantial roles in the passing game. This strategic shift has created a challenging environment for veteran players like Renfrow to secure a starting spot, influencing the recent Roster Cuts.

Despite not making the active roster, the door is open for Hunter Renfrow to return to the Carolina Panthers via the Practice Squad. However, the NFL Free Agency market is also presenting other opportunities, with reports of interest from multiple teams. Renfrow is currently weighing various options that could see him in a different uniform for Week 1.

Renfrow earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2021 during his tenure with the Raiders, showcasing his ability as a dynamic slot receiver. However, his subsequent seasons fell short of those high expectations, making his current Free Agency status a focal point for teams seeking veteran depth in their receiving groups.

As the NFL builds up to the start of the campaign, Hunter Renfrow’s situation will be closely monitored. Whether he opts for a familiar return to the Carolina Panthers’ Practice Squad or embraces a fresh start with another organization, his experience could prove valuable to a team looking to bolster its Wide Receiver talent.