North Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — The next 48 hours in the NFL are historically challenging as teams must reduce their rosters from 90 to 53 players, resulting in a league-wide cut of 1,184 players. Just over 500 will be brought back on practice squads, leaving many lives impacted by these decisions.

Panthers head coach Dave Canales, known for his personal connection with players, plans to maintain his approach during this period. "It's always been a heavy time for me," Canales said on Monday. "It should always hurt and if it doesn't, I'm not doing it right."

Canales intends to speak with each player cut over the next two days, although general manager Dan Morgan will lead the process. "What I hope to do is... give them some honest feedback," Canales stated.

These conversations will likely occur on Tuesday as teams must finalize their rosters by 4 p.m. ET. However, cuts can begin immediately, potentially altering the timeline.

The Panthers have first claim on the waiver wire until Week 4 of the season, which will influence their roster decisions. "We have to look at the entire NFL and our depth chart," Canales explained.

A significant decision involves how many wide receivers the Panthers will retain. Canales described them as "the strongest group that we have on this team." He mentioned possibilities ranging from keeping seven receivers to four and adding two from other teams.

One receiver under evaluation is Ihmir Smith-Marsette, who left Saturday's game with an ankle injury updated to a foot injury. "Ihmir did a fantastic job showing what he can do," Canales noted.

Injuries also play a role in roster decisions. Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks remains on the non-football injury list, while outside linebackers Amaré Barno and D.J. Wonnum are physically unable to perform.

The team must also decide whether to carry a third quarterback due to new rules limiting practice squad promotions for emergencies. Rookie Jack Plummer's preseason performance has complicated this decision.

One certainty is Bryce Young's solid performance in Saturday's game. Young completed one drive going 6-8 for 70 yards and leading an 85-yard touchdown drive.

Regarding special teams, after releasing rookie kicker Harrison Mevis post-first preseason game, Eddy Piñeiro handled kicking duties despite some hamstring tightness observed during Saturday's game. Canales does not foresee using a practice squad spot for an additional kicker given Piñeiro’s capability and the value of those spots for other positions.