Matt Rhule said it was the absolute worst part of being an NFL coach. I can imagine why.
In media availability yesterday, Carolina’s head coach ran down the reasoning for the moves made to cut down the roster to 53 players and why they signed other contributors to the practice squad.
The Panthers went heavy at tight end keeping 5 players at that position, along with 5 receivers after one of the more surprising moves.
Carolina released wide receiver David Moore after it didn’t seem he was the best option as a return man and certainly not as the 3rd best overall receiver with Terrace Marshall’s emergence. He was a solid pass catcher in Seattle, someone who Scott Fitterer was familiar with, and also accounts for over a million dollars in dead cap. Along with Denzel Perryman, he’s the 2nd substantial player to leave the team after signing during free agency.
Matt Rhule gave an indication as to why….
Michael Jordan, who Matt Rhule alluded to, was drafted by Cincinnati a couple of years ago and has plenty of starting experience even as such a young player, which is great news. The bad news of course is that he’s available in the first place.
He allowed a ton of QB hits, including the devastating knock Joe Burrow suffered forcing him to miss the rest of the season. He eventually fell out of his starting position.
The Panthers also signed former Jets 4th round pick in QB James Morgan. Matt Rhule discussed the importance of having a 3rd QB on the roster….
You might ask why Will Grier wasn’t brought back in a similar role, but my guess is Rhule wanted to allow him a better opportunity to become a backup, which may happen in Dallas after he was claimed by the Cowboys.
Carolina’s final roster isn’t quite set yet, but after waiver claims and practice squad signings, you’re starting to see something pretty complete.
