5 players the Panthers can’t risk sneaking on their practice squad in 2021
By Dean Jones
Omar Bayless – Carolina Panthers WR
The size of the task awaiting Omar Bayless this offseason is a steep one. After generating some significant momentum during camp in 2020 that made him a surprise candidate for the 53-man roster, a serious knee injury put pay to his chances. This meant the undrafted free agent was forced to spend the campaign on the injured/reserve list.
Bayless has to regroup and start again.
But it remains to be seen whether or not he can leave a similar impression.
The Carolina Panthers like Bayless. Judging by his production at Arkansas State, it’s not hard to see why.
Not getting drafted gave Bayless some extra motivation he put to good use last summer. Carolina’s wide receiver room is equally as stacked this time around, so it will be interesting to see what role the player can carve out for himself.
It’s a fine line that could go either way where Bayless is concerned. It’s vital the wideout takes advantage of whatever targets come his way during the preseason, which can make all the difference for players in his situation.
Carolina might decide to stash him on the practice squad and further develop his craft. But other teams will have heard the whispers about Bayless’ upside and could swoop in this eventuality.