5 Panthers players who didn’t help their roster chances at OTAs
By Dean Jones
Omar Bayless – Carolina Panthers WR
There was a lot of intrigue about Omar Bayless making his long-awaited return to the field. The wide receiver made a lasting impression during 2020 training camp and looked a lock for the 53-man roster before an unfortunate knee injury meant he was forced to miss the entirety of his rookie campaign.
Bayless was kept around by the Carolina Panthers, which was a strong indication of how well he is thought of by the coaching staff. However, there appears to be plenty of competition for places in the wideout room in a bid to make the team, and according to multiple reports from media in attendance, it’s all been very pedestrian outside of those who will be Sam Darnold’s top targets next season.
It might just be a case of Bayless working his way back slowly. Being out for so long normally comes with a period of adjustment once a player has been permitted to return.
There weren’t many on the Panthers who generated more buzz than Bayless last summer.
The undrafted free agent out of Arkansas State was overlooked by every team despite putting together one of the best statistical seasons in 2019 anywhere in college football, but the task awaiting him in pursuit of a roster spot appears steep.
Considering the Panthers will take D.J. Moore, Robby Anderson, David Moore, Terrace Marshall Jr., and Shi Smith, that leaves one or two places for the rest and Bayless needs to leave no doubt with an improved showing at camp.