The Carolina Panthers have once again leaned heavily on undrafted free agents to build out their roster. It's a strategy that paid off in the past and they hope can work again.
One undrafted player who has caught national attention is former Miami wide receiver Jacolby George. While making the roster will be an uphill battle in a crowded receiver room, George’s playmaking ability and versatility have earned him praise from Bleacher Report's Dame Parson as the Panthers’ most electrifying offseason pickup.
"George is a potential depth receiver who's best suited in the slot," Parson wrote. "He should secure a spot on a final 53-man roster after preseason cuts due to his punt return experience. Playing from the slot will limit his struggles against long-limbed physical press-aligned cornerbacks."
Over the past two seasons at Miami, George compiled 110 catches for 1,616 yards and 16 touchdowns. He was a reliable weapon for quarterback Cam Ward last year, showing off competitiveness. George also brings value on special teams, having averaged 11.8 yards per punt return in his early college years.
Despite his strengths, George’s road to the final roster will be watched closely. Carolina's receiver room includes virtual locks like Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette, Adam Thielen, and Jalen Coker, leaving limited space for depth receivers. He’ll have to compete with veterans like Hunter Renfrow and David Moore, along with Jimmy Horn Jr.
Scouts have noted concerns with George’s size and his struggles against physical press coverage. However, his fiery demeanor can help reshape his game at the next level. George has the tools to carve out a role.
As the Panthers know well, talent can emerge from anywhere and George is a name to keep an eye on in the coming months.