5 Panthers who could be playing their last game for Carolina in Week 18

Which Carolina Panthers could be playing their final game for the organization in Week 18 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

Just one more game stands between the Carolina Panthers and a solid period of rest during the offseason. Sunday’s trip to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers represents a merciful end to the campaign for many fans, who are growing tired of mediocrity or worse since team owner David Tepper bought the franchise from Jerry Richardson.

It’s going to be another eventful offseason of comings and going on the roster. There are also some coaches – Matt Rhule included – that might be nervously awaiting their fate based on how things have transpired following a 3-0 start.

Some prominent figures within the locker room are out of contract and with just $28.3 million in salary-cap space remaining right now, keeping everyone happy is going to be an impossible challenge.

With this in mind, here are five Panthers who could be turning out for the last time in Carolina colors this weekend.

Player No. 1

Lirim Hajrullahu – Carolina Panthers K

This is a pretty obvious one considering how well kicker Zane Gonzalez performed before his season ended early through injury. Lirim Hajrullahu was the man chosen to replace the former Arizona State star, but he’s done nothing to suggest there will be any sort of kicking competition in training camp.

Hajrullahu missed a crucial field goal at the New Orleans Saints last time around, which might have made a slight difference to the overall outcome. The CFL product is out of contract this spring and it would be a huge shock if the Panthers brought him back.

That means Sunday’s game could be a nice audition for Hajrullahu in pursuit of another deal elsewhere once free agency begins.